Editors Comment
May 2025
News
May 2025
COVER STORY: WYSA Engineering Services: A big fan of Victor Taichung machines
When Wynand Le Grange established his company in 1988 when he got the opportunity to machine a few mining components for an international company the first machine he purchased was a Victor VT 20 CNC lathe and he has been loyal to the brand ever since. The latest machine to take its place on the production floor at WYSA Engineering Services is a Victor Taichung VTURN-40Y horizontal turning lathe.
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Industry 4.0 is still work in progress
For years, manufacturers have touted the benefits of Industry 4.0, the threshold past which talent and technology form a symbiotic partnership to generate optimised outcomes. Crossing this threshold means achieving digitalisation, whose benefits include superior record keeping, minimal downtime, reduced waste, greener operations, smarter inventory management and organisational data proficiency.
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GRW Engineering commissions new Faccin 4HEL 12-metre CNC plate roller [VIDEO]
GRW Engineering was established in 1995 by brothers Gerhard and Wentzel van der Merwe, along with business associate Rossouw van Eeden, and is a prominent South African manufacturer of tankers and trailers, headquartered in Worcester in the Western Cape. The company operates an ultra-modern manufacturing facility spanning 40 000m2, equipped with CNC fiber laser cutters, other CNC machines and automated welding machines.
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DMG MORI South Africa opens for business
Next chapter for world-leading machine tool manufacturer in South Africa. DMG MORI, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of CNC machine tools, has begun its next chapter with its association with South Africa. On the 1st April 2025 the company strengthened its presence by establishing its own office in South Africa with DMG MORI South Africa (Pty) Ltd officially opening its doors in Bedfordview, Gauteng.
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DS Bearings celebrates 25 years of business, launches sister company DS Transmission
While the world of manufacturing often focuses on aesthetics like final components and the impressive modern CNC equipment, design software and interfaces used in the manufacturing processes of these components, few take the time to appreciate the intricate and highly specialised components that need to come together to produce these end result components.
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3D Printing Systems SA bolsters its footprint in South Africa with introduction of 3D printing, scanning and design services
South Africa is a relatively well-developed country and this propels an appetite for advanced technologies and so it has been comparatively easy for the development of a 3D printing landscape in South Africa. South Africans have also been proud pioneers in the development and implementation of the technology.
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Electric steel producers of South Africa believe AMSA’s anti-competitive price reductions can cost more jobs in the steel sector
A representative group of the electric steel producers of South Africa previously expressed their serious concerns regarding the government’s decision to help provide a financial bail-out to the long steel operations of ArcelorMittal South Africa (AMSA), arguing any bail-out will further distort market conditions in a steel sector already under severe domestic and international pressure.
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Volkswagen upgrading plant in Kariega
In preparation for the third model that will be manufactured by Volkswagen Group Africa from 2027, Plant Kariega will spend the next four weeks installing and upgrading facilities throughout its production areas. Vehicle production of the popular Polo and Polo Vivo will be halted from 14 April to 12 May, to allow teams to perform the required work on the line in areas such as Body Shop, Paint Shop and Final Assembly.
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Budget Sheet Metal? Not a budget operation [VIDEO]
Continues strategy of investment in equipment, its people, shop floor layout and other efficiencies. Budget Sheet Metal has retained its clients over decades by maintaining consistent output and turnaround times. The factory and its processes have been shaped by demand rather than trend, focusing on keeping machinery operational and orders moving through the system.
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Harcliff Mining Services introduces Kapp Niles gear grinder, capable of machining high precision gears up to Ø2.4m
The Kapp Niles CNC gear grinder to their machining capabilities with their newly installed Kapp Niles ZP 24 gear grinder. The Kapp Niles ZP 24 will allow Harcliff Mining Services to grind larger gears and other components such as pinions and gearbox internals that are manufactured from hardened or case-hardened alloy steel forgings and with much higher tolerances.
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NEASA ready to take on ITAC over proposed large-scale tariff
Steel industry in the firing line. On Friday, 11 April 2025, NEASA informed the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) that if it proceeds with the large-scale tariff review or take any steps towards the implementation of the proposed import surveillance mechanisms, as published in the Government Gazette on 19 March 2025, it will be met with urgent legal action.
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Continuous improvement transforms metal fabrication company Trifab Engineering
Andre Dames – Operations Manager at Trifab Engineering Pty Ltd – started working at the company over 10 years ago. At that time the company was run under another name that had already been operating for 40 years. Its history shows that the company focus changed direction a few times but eventually settled down as a fabrication and assembly company by adding value to sheet metal and with a focus on stainless steel processing.
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TIMTOS 2025 – Taiwanese machine tool builders demonstrate that Industry 5.0 is becoming a reality
Taiwan boasts a machine tool industry that has a rich heritage of collaboration but that only properly began developing in the 1950s, initially producing simple lathes and components. By the 1970s, with government support and favourable industrial policies, Taiwan started manufacturing more sophisticated machine tools and components. In the 1980s and 1990s, exports expanded rapidly, especially to the US and Europe. This established Taiwan as a major global supplier to the machine tool industry.
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Passing of Stef Wertheimer
Israeli billionaire industrialist, former politician and philanthropist Stef (Ze’ev) Wertheimer died Wednesday 26 March 2025 at the age of 98. Stef Wertheimer was an industrialist, investor, philanthropist and politician. He was a member of the Knesset, and was known for founding industrial parks in Israel and neighbouring countries. In 2013, the Wertheimers were described as Israel’s richest family.
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A wealth of inspiration for innovative machine, equipment and product manufacturers to see at EMO Hannover 2025
Under the banner of ‘Innovate Manufacturing’, EMO Hannover 2025, From 22 to 26 September 2025. From ice cream machines to wheel loaders: the spectrum of engineering products is as broad as the market itself. However, nearly all producers are facing the same major challenges: modernising production, developing strategies to combat the shortage of skilled workers, implementing solutions for a more circular economy and improved resource efficiency.
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March 2025
COVER STORY: Quick holemaking with Iscar
The design concept of assembled drills with exchangeable solid carbide cutting heads, adopted by Iscar at the turn of the century, significantly altered the company’s holemaking product program. In this concept, a precise carbide head is mounted in a steel holder using the ‘self-clamping’ principle, which relies on the holder’s elastic deformation, without any mechanical clamping means.
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Optimising cutting speeds: From general guidelines to practical values
Manufacturers of cutting tools typically provide recommended cutting speeds for their products. However, these values are broad estimates based on ideal conditions, such as rigid setups, annealed materials, and the most suitable carbide grades. In reality, these conditions are rarely met, making it necessary to adjust the recommended speeds to fit specific applications.
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Special Steels expands into new facility to enhance material flow and efficiencies
Used to offload 8 trucks in a day – now can offload between 20 and 26 trucks, depending on the material being offloaded. Engineering steel merchant and value-added processing company Special Steels is growing its operations by moving into a larger building to accommodate increased business needs, like more production capacity, storage space and employee headcount.
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Hi-Tech Machine Tools partners with Schunk
Schunk has its roots at its headquarters in Lauffen am Neckar in the district of Heilbronn, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The company was established in 1945 by Friedrich Schunk as a mechanical workshop. Under the management of his son Heinz-Dieter Schunk, Schunk evolved into a global player and the world’s leading technology supplier for robots and production systems.
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Bystronic South Africa strengthening customer support and industry leadership with appointment of Gareth Jackson as Managing Director
The South African metalworking industry is set for a new chapter as Gareth Jackson returns to Bystronic South Africa as Managing Director. With his leadership and industry expertise, Jackson’s return signals stability, progress, and a reinforced commitment to customers.
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Condere Laser and Engineering broadens its horizons and expands to new facility
Purchases a Trumpf 1030 fiber laser and a JFY TPM8 150 press brake. With the addition of new equipment and the expansion of the business, the company had to make decisions and has now moved to the industrial area in Pomona, Kempton Park. The new facility has 3 300m² under roof.
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Hermle AG partner with Top-Tool
Hermle AG, a German-based 5-axis machine tool builder, has partnered with Top-Tool to expand its reach into the South African metalworking engineering market. Hermle AG have been manufacturing state-of-the-art 5-axis CNC machining centers in the southwestern German town of Gosheim since 1938.
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Secant adds larger machines to production capabilities
Over the years Secant Engineering has steadily been adding and expanding the metal shop’s in-house capabilities, which include metal fabrication and CNC and traditional machining. The company has been transformed into a fully-fledged general engineering shop that offers machining, laser, plasma, and flame cutting, CNC bending, fabrication, welding and finishing solutions.
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Abakhulu Investments acquires Centlube, Zestcor Eleven and Ingwe Lubricants
JSE listed enX Trading Investments and enX Leasing Investments have entered into a sale of shares agreement with Abakhulu Investments, in terms of which enX Trading will dispose its 66% interest (including loan claims) in Centlube, its 100% interest (including loan claims) in Ingwe Lubricants and its 37% interest in Zestcor Eleven. enX Leasing will dispose of its loan claim in Ingwe for an aggregate base price of R275,667,525.
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Retrofit your existing CO2 laser to fiber with Lind SA Automation
CO2 laser cutting was invented by Kumar Patel in 1964. Patel, a scientist at Bell Labs, developed the carbon dioxide laser, which became one of the first gas lasers capable of producing continuous high-power output. This invention marked a significant breakthrough, as it allowed for more practical and efficient applications of laser technology, particularly in industrial settings.
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NEASA’s stance on anti-dumping duties on structural steel heard by ITAC
In November 2024, provisional duties, of 52% and 9% on structural steel from China and Thailand respectively, were imposed, despite the investigation into the alleged dumping not being completed yet. This was done despite stringent written objections submitted by NEASA (The National Employers’ Association of South Africa) and various other parties.
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SPP Heavy Engineering lays foundations for new dedicated heavy plate processing facility, commissions 20kW Bystronic ByStar fiber laser with 6m x 2.5m bed
Accompanies installation with Bystronic ByBend Smart 6 metre, 600-ton, six-axis bending machine and two smaller 300-ton and 150-ton bending machines. Cutting thick plate doesn’t have to be a messy job. When cutting any gauge of material, you just need to determine the correct process for the specific job and required material.
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Mahindra South Africa and IDC sign MoU to assess feasibility of CKD assembly in South Africa
Mahindra has taken a significant step to strengthen its presence in South Africa. This follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Auto manufacturing giant and South Africa’s Industrial Development Corporation (IDC). The MoU sets the stage for an in-depth feasibility study on the potential establishment of a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) vehicle assembly facility.
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South Africans dumping BMW and Mercedes-Benz
Sales numbers over the last ten years show a declining demand for luxury cars in favour of cheaper alternatives in South Africa. In 2014, luxury brands such as Audi, BMW, Mini, and Mercedes-Benz collectively sold around 74 015 vehicles in South Africa. As of the end of 2024, this number had dropped to 23 881. This translates to a 68% drop in sales—highlighting the stagging amount of South Africans who no longer see these vehicles as an option.
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Sheetmetal Solutions – a turnkey name for a turnkey sheetmetal processor
Metalworking service centres typically serve a wide range of industries, providing valuable services for both small and large-scale manufacturing operations. They will offer short and large component production runs and they can help companies streamline their production processes by offering a combination of raw material services combined with advanced processing capabilities.
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ITAC issues a preliminary determination on the alleged dumping of certain flat-rolled products of iron, alloy, and non-alloy steel imported from China, Japan and Taiwan
ArcelorMittal South Africa (AMSA) brought an application for remedial action against the alleged dumping of certain flat-rolled products of iron, non-alloy, or other alloy steel of a width of 600mm or more, imported from the People’s Republic of China, Japan, and Taiwan.
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TW Profile Services sets levelling and stress standards for sheet and plate components
Levelling/flattening and destressing of metal components and blanks that have been processed on a fiber laser or plasma machine at TW Profile Services has jumped to a new level at the company with the introduction of the Part Performer machine that is manufactured by German company Kohler Maschinenbau.
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How cloud-based CAD helps you work faster and smarter with Autodesk Fusion 360 [VIDEO]
Cloud-based CAD software is slowly taking over the way data is stored and transferred during the design process. There are many benefits to adopting 3D CAD software. It’s fast, reduces cost, increases productivity, provides better security, is more reliable, and is scalable on the global market.
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Regular maintenance of cutting fluids is essential to maintain quality
“Regular maintenance is key to optimal performance. Our clients typically undertake thorough machine cleanings around shut down periods to prevent unpleasant odours from bacterial growth in stagnant soluble oil,” explains Ashleigh Pollen, Industrial and Specialty Manager at Fuchs Lubricants South Africa.
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January 2025
COVER STORY: How metrology technology is helping car companies manufacture the latest EVs: Renishaw
Almost everyone is aware of the EV revolution in the automotive industry. The switch from diesel and petrol engines to electric power is constantly in the news, and despite some obstacles to widespread adoption, the clock is ticking. Gareth Tomkinson, Business Development Manager in Renishaw’s CMM and Gauging Products Division, explores the role of metrology in solving these challenges.
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A wheel service provider for the best in the market
Five years ago, Traxtion was outsourcing its wheel repairs to outside contractors. Today a small, but formidable team of wheel experts, supported by the rest of the company, not only services its own wheels, but also the wheels of other operators on the African rail network. Francois Welgemoed, Traxtion’s Group Technical Manager, says it made sense for Traxtion to operate its own wheel shop.
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JIMTOF 2024: A turning point for automation and digitalisation in manufacturing
JIMTOF 2024, held from 5 to 10 November 2024 at Tokyo Big Sight International Exhibition Center in Tokyo, attracted a record number of 129 000 visitors from all over the world. JIMTOF is synonymous with being a platform where the world’s leading manufacturers showcase their latest cutting-edge technologies. The 32nd edition did not disappoint.
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DMG MORI establishes its own South African subsidiary
“Leading machine tool manufacturer DMG MORI is committed to the South African market and its valued customers. For this reason, the globally represented company is setting up its own subsidiary in South Africa under the name ‘DMG MORI South Africa’. The long-term dealer agreement with Retecon Pty Ltd will end on the best terms by mutual agreement.
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AMSA winding down its longs steel business in Newcastle, KZN
Despite extensive consultations with Government and stakeholders to find viable solutions to sustain the Longs Business, progress was insufficient to avert the wind down. The Company will now transition the Longs Business into care and maintenance. Steel production is anticipated to cease by late January 2025, with the wind-down of the remaining production processes completed in Q1 2025.
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ITAC imposes provisional anti-dumping duties on structural steel products: 52.81% on imported Chinese structural steel
Pending the outcome of an investigation by the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) into the alleged dumping of structural steel products imported from China and Thailand into South Africa, South African Revenue Services (Sars) Commissioner Edward Kieswetter has imposed provisional duties.
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FMG Steel instals 20kW Hugong fiber laser
The metal fabrication industry’s business case for high-laser cutting power has evolved over the years. In the early years of CO2 laser cutting, more power let you cut faster and thicker. Especially for service centre type businesses, a higher-powered laser broadened a shop’s capabilities and capacity, which in turn opened the door to new customers and markets.
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GRW Engineering applies for a temporary tariff rebate provision on importation of profiles manufactured in aluminium-copper-magnesium-zinc alloys
GRW Engineering, a leading South Africa based transport equipment designer, manufacturer, and service provider of a wide range of sophisticated, cutting-edge tankers and trailers has submitted an application to the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) for a temporary tariff rebate provision on importation of profiles manufactured in aluminium-copper-magnesium-zinc alloys.
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Nurture your inner braaimaster with the Donkey Long Tong
With the summer months in full swing in the Southern Hemisphere, there is nothing more South African than embracing the outdoors and standing around a braai (open fire) with friends or family and listening to the click-click tap-tap of a braai tong going about its important business of manoeuvring a lamb chop closer to the heat for a better sear or effortlessly flipping over a spool of boerewors, fat spitting fragrant aromas of coriander into the surroundings.
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New sounding rocket facility at Overberg test range successfully launches two rockets
South Africa’s newly inaugurated sounding rocket facility successfully launched the Phoenix-1D and Phoenix-1E sounding rockets on 2 December and 4 December 2024, respectively. The Aerospace Systems Research Institute (ASRI) operates the facility under the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). These events mark a pivotal step in advancing the nation’s space capabilities. The facility’s gantry operated seamlessly during the launches.
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Newly implemented hot-edge inductors enable Hulamin to enhance product quality
Upgrade has enabled production of high-quality cold-rolled aluminium strip, meeting the demands of the can packaging market. Recently, Primetals Technologies signed the final acceptance certificate (FAC) with aluminium producer Hulamin following the successful installation and commissioning of new hot edge inductors for its cold mill rolling line.
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Galison Manufacturing delivers first batch of 275 new container wagons to Lobito Atlantic Railway in Angola
The wagons have been manufactured at the Galison plant in Welkom. The Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR) has taken an important step this week towards strengthening its transport capacity with the arrival in Lobito, Angola, of the first batch of 275 new container wagons purchased from Galison Manufacturing in South Africa.
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Wekaba launches R25 million automotive component manufacturing plant
Wekaba, a leading manufacturer of medium to high-volume CNC machined automation components, has officially inaugurated its new R25 million automotive manufacturing plant, which the company says is a ground-breaking facility that will extend its capability to produce internationally designed components at world-class standards with zero defect.
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Deputy Minister Whitfield visits Intsimbi/PtSA Centre of Excellence in Gqeberha
The visit forms part of the Future Production Technologies Initiative (FPTI), a multi-stakeholder partnership between the dtic and the Production Technologies Association of South Africa (PtSA). The FPTI is committed to revitalising South Africa’s tool, die, and mould making (TDM) sector, a critical component of the country’s manufacturing landscape.
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2025 RAPDASA-RobMech-PRASA-AMI international conference dates announced
Following the success of the 2024 RAPDASA Conference, joined by RobMech, PRASA and AMI, hosted in the Board Walk Hotel and Conference Venue in Gqeberha, South Africa on 28 to 31 October 2024, RAPDASA has announced the Call for Papers for the 2025 RAPDASA-RobMech-PRASA-AMI international conference to be held from 27 to 30 October 2025 at the CSIR.
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KwaZulu-Natal alloys company is an example of the automotive master plan
A KwaZulu-Natal aluminium alloys manufacturing company, Bingelela Alloys, which is based in Richards Bay, is an example of the objectives that the South African Automotive Master Plan 2035 has set to achieve. These include increasing local content in vehicles assembled locally, doubling employment and achieving industry transformation across the value chain.
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Giyani Metals eyes first production at manganese demo plant
Giyani Metals Corp. President and CEO Charles FitzRoy said the company’s demonstration plant in Johannesburg is firmly in the commissioning phase, and is on target to deliver the first production of battery-grade manganese. CEC Engineering fabricates crystalliser towers for the project.
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The Chinese are coming. Great.
Tim Cohen, Editor-at-large at the Daily Maverick wrote a very good scenario in his column ‘After the bell’ about the automotive industry in South Africa and the growing Chinese automotive OEM influence not only locally but worldwide. The Chinese are coming whether anyone likes it or not.
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November 2024
COVER STORY: Retecon and Trumpf’s 43-year association
Retecon has a number of long-standing relationships with international machine tool manufacturers and many of them have European roots. The association with German company Trumpf dates back to 1981 with 1985 marking the year the first Trumpf laser machine was sold, a TC180LK punch/laser combination, that generated all of 750 Watts.
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Donnees Engineering survives flooding and invests in a new Mazak Quick Turn 300
Every year Donnees Engineering invests back into the company to ensure growth but it was just over a year ago that heavy rainfall caused flooding in and around the Paarl area of the Western Cape. One of the industrial areas was badly hit and businesses saw knee-deep water running through their factories and offices. One such company was Donnees Engineering.
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Celebrating the life of George Mills
It is with deep regret and sadness that we announce the passing of George Mills in August 2024 after putting up a brave fight with cancer for a number of years. George was well-known to many of us in the machine tool and metalworking industry, especially to those in the Western Cape.
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Prof. Gerhard Steenkamp relies on Somta cutters for dental treatment of elephant tusks
“This year marks the 11th year of my journey with Somta Tools, now an OSG Group company. Way back in 2013 I stumbled upon their website when I was looking for industrial sized cutters for my industrial sized patients. African elephants can stand three to four metres tall and can weigh in excess of 6 tons. By all measures they are enormous,” explained Professor Gerhard Steenkamp.
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SPE installs state-of-the-art Prima Power BCe 2720 panel bender [VIDEO]
Generally speaking, fabrication is not what many would consider a glamourous process to watch, but bending with the Prima Power BCe 2720 panel bender is something to behold. Watching this semi-automatic bending center going about its task of high-precision bending is a bit like watching poetry in motion.
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Balancell open battery gigafactory in Ndabeni, Cape Town
Energy storage company Balancell has inaugurated its battery gigafactory that it recently moved into. The factory was opened by the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry Andrew Whitfield, on the 24th of October 2024, and attended by over 100 guests, which included shareholders and founding investor Andrew McPherson and CEO/CTO Dr Ian de Vries, other investors, suppliers and delegates.
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Max Power Services builds capacity with the addition of a DN Solutions DNM 5700 CNC milling machine
Leading precision mining equipment manufacturer Max Power Services’ latest investment in a new DN Solutions’ DNM 3-axis vertical machining center is indicative of the company’s recently-introduced continuous improvement programme, designed to help the company grow, strengthen its position within existing customers’ supply chains, diversify its operations to attract new customers.
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TH Machine Tools appointed agents for AORE Laser Technology Group
Shandong AORE Laser Technology Group Co., Ltd. is a high-tech enterprise specialising in the research, development, production, sales, and service of laser application equipment. Its products and services are available in over 180 countries and regions, with main product categories including sheet metal laser cutting machines, tube laser cutting machines, sheet and tube integrated laser cutting machines, 3D laser cutting machines, and laser welding machines.
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United Grinding Group expands product portfolio through acquisition of GF Machining Solutions
The United Grinding Group has announced the signing of an agreement with Georg Fischer AG (GF) to acquire its GF Machining Solutions Division (GFMS) with the aim of strengthening its position in the market and serving its global customers with even more comprehensive solutions. Together, United Grinding and GFMS will join forces to become a global leader in ultra-precision machining.
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This year marks Easson-Vertex’s 22nd anniversary
“22 years in business is not a celebrated date but when you are looking back at what you have done, there are some significant milestones that brought us here and got us to the point where we are not far from celebrating more popular years for milestones,” said Paul Hammerton, one of two partners in Easson-Vertex, a company established to provide high-quality machine tool accessories used in the engineering, tool and die making, steel and metal working industries.
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PTD Metalworking Professionals looks to another 50 years in business and beyond
On the 18th of October 2024, PTD Metalworking Professionals, formally known as Perfection Tool and Die, took the opportunity to down tools and celebrate their 50th anniversary at their premises in Anderbolt, Boksburg in style. Over and above the attendance of their roughly 100 employees were the original owners Norbert Bohn and Raul Dos Santos.
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Milkor displayed its Advanced Milkor 380 UAS unmanned aerial system at AAD 2024
Milkor, a leading South African defence company showcased its latest unmanned aerial system (UAS), the Milkor 380, at the Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) 2024 exhibition that was held at Air Force Base Waterkloof in Pretoria from 18 to 22 September 2024 and is Africa’s premier aerospace and defence expo, attracting industry leaders, military officials, and defence enthusiasts from around the globe.
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Production of BMW’s new X3 has kicked off with South Africa becoming its exclusive home
BMW Group South Africa marks the dawn of a new era with the start of production of the next-generation BMW X3. Plant Rosslyn began manufacturing the new model for global export on 1 October 2024, and is the only facility in its global production network to build the BMW X3 as a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV).
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Baker Baynes and SAIMechE partner to empower members with mechanical engineering learning solutions
Baker Baynes, an Autodesk Authorised Gold Partner, and the South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering (SAIMechE) have announced a strategic partnership that aims to advance sustainability and uplift the mechanical engineering community in South Africa. This collaboration is set to empower engineers through access to Autodesk technology and CPD-accredited training.
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50 years of EMO – a success story
Continuous development into the world’s leading trade fair for production technology. On August 1, 2024, the mailing of registration documents all around the world for EMO Hannover 2025 marked the start of a very special event. The world’s leading trade fair for production technology, which takes place from 22 to 26 September 2025 in Hannover, Germany, is celebrating an important anniversary.
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September 2024
COVER STORY: Tekenso’s eTrack production management and manufacturing solution software drives National Stainless Steel to new efficiency and control levels
“When we heard about Tekenso’s eTrack system, software that provides management with fast, accurate production and manufacturing operational intelligence, we knew immediately that we had to implement the system into our ever-growing company,” said Mischel Frljak, MD of National Stainless Steel Centre.
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Why do we not get more medals at the Olympic Games?
I am sure most of us that are interested in sport really enjoyed the recent Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The coverage was incredible and you could not want for more about learning about the different sports that don’t usually get front page coverage. Paris, a city where the Springboks have won the Rugby World Cup there in 2007 and 2023, was shown off in all its glory.
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Joint venture Ogihara South Africa set to open press shop for Toyota stamped parts
Toyota Tsusho Africa (TTAF), a subsidiary of Toyota Tsusho Corporation, in collaboration with Ogihara (Thailand) Corporation (OTC) and Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM), are proud to announce the formation of a new joint venture, Ogihara South Africa (OSA). The announcement was made at a ground-breaking event that took place at the construction site at Dube Trade port in Durban.
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Atlantis Foundries casts its two-millionth HDEP engine block
Atlantis Foundries have recently achieved a notable milestone in the company’s history when it recorded the casting of its two-millionth heavy-duty engine block (HDEP) since the foundry cast its first sample just over 16 years ago. What is more remarkable is that the two million mark has been achieved in just six years since the company recorded its first million castings of HDEPs.
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Kennametal certified partner PTD Metalworking Professionals looking to build on ever growing customer base
Just over three years ago, Kennametal South Africa announced that it had appointed PTD Metalworking Professionals as its official distributor, one of 10 Kennametal distributors in South Africa. Since then, the company has been growing steadily, both in customers and the number of staff it employs and has graduated to becoming a certified partner, one of only two in South Africa.
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QPLaser celebrates two years of cutting, bending and finishing
In the short space of two years, Deon Meiring has managed to grow his small laser cutting business into a two-shift a day business servicing the greater Winelands area in the Western Cape. Established by Meiring in September 2022, QPLaser was born out of a need for faster laser cutting to be done and delivered for another business across the road from QP Laser’s current facility.
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Adapting to changing times in the metal service industry: SPP Profiling’s strategic growth takes hold
SPP Profiling is cutting out a niche position for itself as the go-to precision engineering shop ready to take advantage of future industry growth opportunities in the greater Western Cape. “The metal service industry is evolving, with many companies finding it crucial to offer turnkey solutions and to continually improve their customer service to remain competitive,” says SPP Profiling’s Sales Director, Jonathan Romeo.
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Galison Manufacturing sets new standards in rail transport
Galison Manufacturing is celebrating the successful fulfilment of a significant order. The company has delivered 50 lightweight dual-purpose wagons to a major logistics firm operating between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia. This accomplishment marks a milestone in addressing complex transportation needs in the region.
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Ti-TaMED and Airwave Engineering – specialist OEM component suppliers to the medical device, aerospace, marine and aviation industries
A cleaner, more efficiently designed and arranged machine shop floor you will be hard pressed to find – not just in South Africa, but anywhere in the world. Sister companies Ti-TaMED and Airwave Engineering, based in Paarden Eiland, Cape Town, are at the forefront in the medical device, aerospace, marine and aviation precision engineering industries, fast gaining on their reputation as a competent OEM manufacturer.
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Technical Systems wins copyright infringement and unlawful competition case
The Western Cape High Court rules in favour of global South African manufacturer of poultry feed-conveying products who suffered a loss in profit before tax of an estimated R180 million because of an employee forming a syndicate to hack its system for nine years, stealing over a thousand copyright protected engineering drawings.
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ME Elecmetal announce acquisition of Benoni foundry Prima Industrial Holdings
Global mining supply company ME Elecmetal, headquartered in Chile, has today formalised its purchase of one of Africa’s leading foundries – the Prima Foundry in Benoni, Gauteng, South Africa. This is a significant milestone for ME Elecmetal, who has a 107-year history in the mining industry, with sales in over 40 countries.
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Sandock Austral Shipyards delivers two new launch boats
In a move to fast-track its operational efficiency, Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has christened two new launch boats destined for the Port of Cape Town built by the Sandock Austral Shipyards (SAS) in Durban. This acquisition forms part of the TNPA Marine Fleet Renewal programme, which aims to improve shipping efficiencies at the South African ports by increasing marine craft availability.
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IDC invests R15.9 billion into the economy amid a challenging operating environment
Against the backdrop of several economic headwinds, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) disbursed R15.9 billion of its own on-balance sheet funds to businesses, facilitating the creation of 17 826 jobs in the financial year ending 31 March 2024. This amount was 11% down from the R17.8 billion recorded in the previous corresponding period.
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How Ford’s robot helpers ensure each Ranger door is weatherproof
Working shoulder-to-shoulder with workers on the door assembly line at Ford’s Silverton Manufacturing Plant are two cobots (collaborative robots) responsible for the installation of weatherproof shields into Ranger doors, a process requiring pin-point accuracy, strength, and dexterity.
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July 2024
COVER STORY: TaeguTec’s Win-SFeed Machines for Improved Bottom Line
“Paying attention to what economists say about the nation’s manufacturing patterns is like riding a rollercoaster – it rises and falls dramatically at different times. No matter what economists say, the reality of the cost of manufacturing is felt in the shop. That is where TaeguTec comes in with cutting tools that increase productivity and cut costs,” said Nathan Govender, MD of TaeguTec SA.
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PTD Metalworking Professionals celebrates 50-year anniversary
This month, Perfection Tool and Die, now known as PTD Metalworking Professionals, located in the Anderbolt area of Boksburg, Gauteng, will celebrate its 50-year anniversary. The company specialises as a general engineering machining shop and services industries such as the motor, plastics, general engineering, coal, gold and platinum mining sectors.
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TW Tube Laser and Processing adds Bodor tube laser cutting machine to complement its fast turnaround strengths
When TW Tube Laser and Processing was established just under 10 years ago, management believed that there was a gap in the market to process-in-one sections of material for large hollow sections and open structural sections such as H-Beam, I-Beam, angle and channel.
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Warren’s Way Engineering turns 30
Warren’s Way Engineering celebrates its 30th anniversary this year after being established in 1994 by Warren Petersen, clear leader, entrepreneur and owner who founded the company. What is remarkable is that Petersen was only 21-years-old when he started the company, having only just qualified as a fitter and turner.
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Building your own modular stainless steel truck canopy with SmartCap [VIDEO]
International manufacturing and recognition sets this manufacturer apart from its competitors. In a world where urbanisation and technological advancements often disconnect us from nature, South Africans are leading the way in reclaiming their outdoor spaces. SmartCap is the world’s first modular truck canopy system and lets you build and organise your truck bed exactly how you want it.
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Do you have the skills to succeed in the 4IR world?
The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is changing the way we work by introducing new technologies that automate routine tasks. This has many benefits, including enabling workers to focus on more complex and creative work, and providing new opportunities for remote work, training, and collaboration.
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Main agreement not extended – does not apply to non-signatories yet: NEASA
NEASA (The National Employers Association of South Africa), through its media department, has sent out a notice to its members and industry at large about the latest developments in the Metals and Engineering Industries Bargaining Council (MEIBC) main agreement.
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PtSA Western Cape takes delivery of a DMG MORI DMU 40 5-axis machining center and launches 5-axis training capacity
The Production Technologies Association of South Africa (PtSA), Western Cape branch has recently taken delivery of a DMG MORI DMU 40, a compact 5-axis machining center. The machine has been purchased so that PtSA Western Cape can now include 5-axis training in its comprehensive apprenticeship and qualification training programmes that it offers.
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LuvSide brings vertical wind turbines to South Africa
German company LuvSide launched a pilot project in the V&A Waterfront featuring four 1kW small-scale wind turbines. These drag-style turbines are seen as a more aesthetic option coupling that with their ability to capture wind from all angles, they are a good fit for urban environments.
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Balancell Energy recognised as fastest growing manufacturing company in Africa
The Financial Times, in partnership with Statista, has published its list of Africa’s 125 Fastest Growing Companies for the Year. In the top spot for manufacturing was Balancell Energy, a South African business that designs, engineers and manufactures smart lithium-ion batteries for multiple applications.
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RGC Engineering opens training institute for inspection instrument operators and metrologists
“RGC Engineering has been a beacon of innovation in providing quality solutions and equipment for dimensional and non-destructive testing and tooling for the South African manufacturing engineering landscape since its inception in 1960,” said Aurelio Grech-Cumbo, MD of RGC Engineering.
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Multitrade 3D Systems becomes an official reseller for MX3D in Sub-Saharan Africa
Multitrade 3D Systems and MX3D, a leading creator of Robotic WAAM (Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing) technology, are pleased to announce their partnership, designating Multitrade 3D Systems as an official sales partner for MX3D solutions in the Sub-Saharan Africa market.
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Flexilube scoops top honours at industry awards evening
Flexilube named National Processor of the Year at ROSE Foundation’s 30th Anniversary Gala and Awards Evening held on the 23rd of May at Emperors Palace, it has been reported in the Citizen newspaper. This prestigious award is in recognition of the exceptional service and significant contribution that Flexilube has made in used oil recycling in South Africa.
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Celebrating the life of Mr Robotic Welding: Terry Rosenberg
Born in 1946 in Rosebank, Johannesburg, Rosenberg was schooled at Huguenot High School in Wellington, Western Cape where he completed his schooling in 1962. After school he did an apprenticeship at BMC and then worked at Rob Motors in their ‘Parts’ department before going into the army.
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A review of Machine Tools Africa 2024
The recent Machine Tools Africa exhibition, held at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, was an opportunity for the suppliers to the South African metalworking engineering industry to showcase their products, big and small, to an audience that shapes and forms metal by cutting, twisting, turning, rotating and bending the material with the help of machinery, tooling, control systems, robotics, design software and accessories.
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JIMTOF 2024: Technologies passed down to the future offers unlimited possibilities
The Japan Machine Tool Builders’ Association (JMTBA) and Tokyo Big Sight Inc. will hold JIMTOF 2024, the 32nd Japan International Machine Tool Fair at Tokyo Big Sight for six days from Tuesday, November 5 to Sunday November 10, 2024. JIMTOF, one of the world’s largest international technology shows, brings together cutting-edge technologies and products.
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Brazil means business – FEIMEC 2024 confirms its position as the largest industrial event in Latin America
Metalworking News was recently invited to attend FEIMEC 2024 that took place in May in São Paulo, Brazil. FEIMEC – the International Machinery and Equipment Exhibition – exceeded all expectations and reaffirmed that Brazil’s machinery and equipment sector means business.
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Show off your design skills and stand the chance to win big in the Autodesk Fusion Maker design competition
Entries close: 22 July 2024. Baker Baynes invites all manufacturing design maestros and creative innovators to participate in the Autodesk Fusion Maker Design Competition. This is a golden opportunity to demonstrate your exceptional skills and creativity by designing a cutting-edge, portable power station. The competition offers the chance to win exceptional prizes and gain industry-wide recognition.
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May 2024
COVER STORY: Iscar is about to change metal cutting… again!
Iscar is set to revolutionise metal cutting once again with its latest product launch, “LOGIQUICK”. This new brand name signifies Iscar’s new marketing theme and encompasses three key words: “Logic”, “IQ”, and “Quick”. The previous campaigns by Iscar have already highlighted the importance of intelligent cutting tools for advanced machining, providing logical solutions that meet the primary of modern production.
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Moving of the SA Navy’s Multi Mission Inshore Patrol Vessel 3 (MMIPV3)
Blessing ceremony marks project success! On 1 March, Damen Shipyards Cape Town hosted the blessing ceremony for the third Multi-Mission Inshore Patrol Vessel (MMIPV) to be delivered as part of Project Biro. The vessels will provide a significant boost to South Africa’s capability to respond effectively, rapidly and cost-efficiently to threats from the water.
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RGC Engineering delivers Carl Zeiss GOM high-speed, accurate and precise measuring confidence to local automotive and general industry
RGC Engineering delivered its first Carl Zeiss GOM system to a client back in 2006. Since then, the company has been regularly equipping local companies, and in particular the automotive OEMs and first-tier companies, with Carl Zeiss GOM instruments and systems.
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BK Steel & Profiles eyes the future, installs 4kW JFY fibre laser
Located in the Deal Party area of Gqeberha, and near to major transport links, BK Steel & Profiles, founded in 1995, specialises in profile cutting services and offers a diverse range of steel solutions to commercial and industrial clients across South Africa. The recently opened new facility in Deal Party was made possible after a substantial investment undertaken with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).
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Somta Tools celebrates 70 years and opening of new national distribution centre in Gauteng
From small and humble beginnings Somta Tools has grown into the largest cutting tool manufacturer in Africa, specialising in the manufacture and distribution of drills, cutters, reamers, threading tools and toolbits, in both solid carbide and high speed steel, with or without state of the art PVD surface coatings.
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Job losses in the metal industry may be set to continue
Minimum wage increases in the metal industry have become prohibitively high. Year upon year of awarding above-inflation increases has led to a situation where minimum wage rates, especially amongst lesser-skilled employees, have been pushed to a level where the value that an unskilled labourer is able to add to his or her employer no longer matches his or her wage rate.
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DNE Laser South Africa offers two-year Tekenso modular software subscription with your fibre laser purchase, at no extra cost, for limited period
Machine tool builder extends powerful synergy of manufacturing and fabrication knowledge expertise to eTrack – a complete management system that incorporates finance, sales, production, logistics, HR and IT (CAD/CAM/nesting software, CRM/ERP).
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South African Astronomical Observatory expands its high-precision machining capabilities with the addition of new Kitamura Mycenter-HX400iG horizontal machining center
Located in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town and founded in 1820, The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is the national centre for optical and infrared astronomy in South Africa. Its primary purpose is to conduct essential research in astronomy and astrophysics.
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Name change to Fuchs Africa reflects footprint in 37 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa
As the regional responsibilities within the Fuchs Group in Africa have developed, it has been decided to rename Fuchs Southern Africa to Fuchs Africa, with effect from 1 April 2024. “Our local activities continue to be performed through Fuchs Lubricants South Africa,” said MD Paul Deppe.
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Stay abreast of industry trends, gain insight into the latest technologies at Machine Tools Africa 2024
Plan your trip to South Africa’s only metalworking related exhibition. Stay abreast of industry trends, gain insight into the latest technologies, and see hundreds of new products and innovations on display at the world-class Machine Tools Africa 2024 exhibition, taking place from 21 to 24 May 2024 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec.
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Volkswagen Group Africa has announced a R4 billion investment in its manufacturing plant in Kariega (Uitenhage)
The investment will be used to upgrade facilities in various areas in preparation for the addition of a third model to its production line-up from 2027. Most of the R4 billion investment will be allocated to capital expenditure for production facilities, manufacturing tooling, local content tooling and quality assurance.
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Banella Metals increases cutting capacity and steel merchant capabilities
Takes delivery of Hugong HGLX 20kW fibre laser with a bed size of 20m by 3m. Banella Metals, based in Vulcania, Brakpan, Gauteng has recently installed a Hugong HGLX 20kW fibre laser that has a bed size of 20m by 3m. The machine, supplied by TRM Supplies, was installed in March 2024 and is an important and strategic capital equipment investment.
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Kennametal announces strategic partnership with ModuleWorks
Kennametal has announced that it has joined ModuleWorks’ Strategic Partner Programme. This programme is a collective commitment to driving intelligent and integrated digital manufacturing solutions. Kennametal joins a variety of industry leaders in this programme, such as Mitsubishi Electric, AutoDesk, PTC and DMG MORI, among others.
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Machine tool maker DN Solutions starts process of listing on Korea Exchange
The company, majority owned by DN Automotive, is expected to debut on the Korea Exchange by the end of this year. DN Solutions, the world’s third-largest machine tool maker, has kicked off the process of going public on the Korea Exchange, in an initial public offering valued at around 3 trillion to 4 trillion won ($2.2 billion to 2.9 billion), according to The Korea Economic Daily.
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Mazak joins the Cybersecurity Manufacturing Innovation Institute as collaborative partner
Continuing its leadership role in secure digital connectivity and Industry 4.0 manufacturing, Mazak has joined major cybersecurity research universities and enterprises throughout the country as a collaborative partner with the Cybersecurity Manufacturing Innovation Institute (CyManII).
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FEIMEC 2024 – International Machinery and Equipment Fair – São Paulo, Brazil – May 7th to 11th
The largest machinery and equipment fair in Latin America, FEIMEC, takes place in May 2024. With a record number of exhibitor brands, participating countries, and innovations in technology, equipment, and services for the industry, the event promises days of intense programming and a wealth of qualified content, networking, and business opportunities.
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Sandvik to acquire Germany-based cutting tools supplier Almü Präzisions-Werkzeug
Expands market presence with lightweight aluminium components. Sandvik has signed an agreement to acquire Almü Präzisions-Werkzeug GmbH (Almü), a Germany-based cutting tools and solutions provider within high-precision drilling, reaming, milling and tooling systems.
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March 2024
COVER STORY: In focus with Victor Taichung South Africa: Talking to Dudley
“For a strong, reliable machining solution you won’t go far wrong with a Victor Taichung machine. With millions invested in Taiwan in a new Smart Factory, which ensures efficient product development and volume manufacture, it’s easy to see why we see plenty of these robust and reliable machine tools in action all over South Africa and the world,” explained Dudley Meredith who has been with the company in South Africa since March 2002 and is the Managing Director.
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Technipunch looks after its engine room
The 2020 global pandemic was by far one of the biggest challenges that most businesses had to endure. Its long-term impact on the economy has yet to be revealed and unfortunately, some businesses have collapsed due to the unexpected pressures they experienced. Starting a business during the pandemic may have seemed impossible.
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Trax Engineering gets going as a fabricator
“Most of my career has been doing something in the engineering field and that has not been sitting behind a desk. From maintenance to manufacturing I have got some experience. Good or bad it has generally given me a head start and investing in my first fibre laser was not as daunting as I thought it would be,” explained Tom Webb.
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ITAC investigation into the alleged dumping of flat-rolled products
Trade agency the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) has, following an investigation into alleged dumping of steel products from the People’s Republic of China, determined that dumping of products originating in or imported from China is taking place.
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Duncan Macdonald appointed South Africa agent for Assfalg industrial lifting magnets and surface finishing technology equipment
Duncan Macdonald Company Ltd, an importer of engineering tools and accessories for the metalworking industry, as well as a local manufacturer of Tapmatic cutting fluids and coolants, has added German manufacturer Assfalg’s products to the list of international companies and products that they market in South Africa.
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Mintek adds a laser powder bed fusion 3D printer to array of cutting-edge technology
The acquisition of the AMAZEMET rePowder ultrasonic atomisation and alloy development machine by Mintek, South Africa’s national mineral research council, marked a technological breakthrough for the mineral processing and manufacturing industry. Mintek is proud to announce the purchase of a GE Additive Concept Laser Mlab Cusing R laser powder bed fusion 3D printer.
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Machine Tools Africa 2024 for everything that twists, turns, rotates, cuts, forms, bends or shapes
South Africa’s biggest machine tools exhibition is taking place from 21 to 24 May 2024 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec and will be showcasing cutting-edge developments across the machine tool and related industries and the very latest global machine tool technology. Machine Tools Africa 2024 will also highlight the importance of local suppliers and their international manufacturing partners.
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Navigating South Africa’s transition from the NQF to OQSF framework – why meeting the 2024 June 30 deadline matters
South Africa is at a crossroads of a significant educational and vocational transition as it shifts from the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) to the Occupational Qualifications Sub Framework (OQSF) managed by the Quality Council for trades and Occupations (QCTO). The CEO of the QCTO, Mr. Vijayen Naidoo, has declared that the transition is imminent and that existing qualifications will not be re-registered.
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KYB Academy opens new technical training facility in Potchefstroom for artisan careers and skills in the engineering, mining and manufacturing space
TH Machine Tools supplies metal shaping and forming equipment. Kitso Ya Boleng (KYB) means “quality knowledge” in the language of Setswana and the founders of KYB Academy take the meaning of them literally in their quest to make a change in the quality of South African education offered in the North West Province.
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Mazak commences in-house production of ‘Mineral Cast’ machine tool bases
Yamazaki Mazak initiates in-house production of ‘Mineral Cast’ to mitigate parts procurement risk by utilizing machine tool bases instead of castings, offering the advantage of significantly lower carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions during the manufacturing process. Yamazaki Mazak has initiated efforts to internally manufacture a composite material known as ‘Mineral Cast’.
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Naamsa welcomes government’s strategy to support the transition to electric vehicles
The Automotive Business Council has welcomed the announcement made by the Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana during his Annual Budget Speech 2024 to support the transition to electric vehicles through a strategic and investment driven plan. “Recognising the global shift towards sustainable mobility solutions, we welcome government’s strategy to promote the production of EVs in South Africa,” said Mikel Mabasa, Naamsa CEO.
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Glencore encouraged by collaboration between miners and car manufacturers
At this year’s Mining Indaba, Marie-Chantal Kaninda, President of Glencore in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), participated in a forum on 6 February discussing the shape of a successful business relationship between car manufacturers and mining companies. As the growth of the electric vehicle (EV) market globally has driven demand for minerals produced in Africa, including cobalt, supply chain transparency and security have become crucial issues.
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Volkswagen builds 1.5-millionth export vehicle
During the night shift on Monday 19 February, the production team of Volkswagen Group Africa celebrated a milestone when the 1.5-millionth vehicle built for export in Kariega rolled off the line. The milestone vehicle, a Polo GTI destined for the United Kingdom, also marked the 21 165th vehicle built for export this year alone. The Kariega plant built 101 557 Polos for export last year.
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Denel concluding Hoefyster development but fewer vehicles to be manufactured
Denel is busy concluding development of the Badger infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) under Project Hoefyster, while revised production costs will see fewer vehicles manufactured for the SA Army according to a Defenceweb article. Armscor this week briefed Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans (PCDMV) on the status of Hoefyster and other matters, noting that the project had stalled since 2019.
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Port inefficiency threatens to overtake load shedding as single biggest threat to national wellbeing
“Another year, another blast of hot air about the state of the nation,” said John Lawson, CEO of the Cape Chamber of Commerce & Industry, in response to the latest SONA speech by President Cyril Ramphosa. “But when the sound bites are all cleared away the Province still sits with the same enormous headache smack in the middle of the regional economy: Transnet.”
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Coleus Packaging in a new PMC 500 crown manufacturing machine
“Previously, we were majority owned by SAB but in mid-2022 Astir Vitogiannis acquired 75% shareholding in Coleus, and left the remaining 25% with Nokusa Packaging, our BEE partner. We are ready to do business with everyone,” says Ian Victor, the Managing Director of Coleus Packaging.
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Major blow for one of South Africa’s biggest employers
The latest data from the Minerals Council South Africa shows that the mining sector’s contribution to GDP crashed 12% in 2023 due to the electricity and logistics crises that have hit mining companies hard. Despite this, the council said that the mining sector is still pulling its weight and fulfilling its end of the “social bargain” by contributing to job creation and higher tax revenues.
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South African platinum industry could shed up to 7 000 jobs to cut costs
South African PGM miners, home to around 70% of global mined platinum output, are discussing the need to restructure unprofitable production, the council said at the recent Investing in African Mining Indaba conference in Cape Town, Reuters reported. The Minerals Council SA (MCSA) said that restructuring of South Africa’s platinum group metals (PGM) industry in response to rising costs and falling prices could result in between 4 000 and 7 000 job cuts.
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3C Metal Belmet South Africa wins order to fabricate main frame structural steelwork for De Beers Marine’s generation crawlers
3C Metal Belmet South Africa has been commissioned by De Beers Marine to fabricate the main frame structural steelwork for two next-generation crawlers for Debmarine Namibia’s newest diamond recovery vessel, the MV Benguela Gem. The scope of work includes the steelwork fabrication of the crawler’s track and main frames, which will be delivered to the De Beers Marine Mining Systems Workshop.
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Ferrous scrap is emerging as a key strategic raw material
Decarbonisation efforts are now being ramped up across the globe, and as countries begin to implement new export restrictions to meet their key net zero goals, ferrous scrap is rapidly becoming a highly sought-after commodity. Global economists and strategists ING have produced a really interesting report on this subject. Here are some basics. To read the full report visit the link given below.
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South Africa could be a nuclear reactor exporting country
At the recent Mining Indaba held in Cape Town Dr Kelvin Kemm, Chairman of Stratek Global, stated that South Africa can be a nuclear reactor exporting country. He said that South Africa was the first country in the world to start developing a commercial Small Modular Reactor (SMR). South Africa is now a world leader in SMR development and is in a position to build the prototype immediately. This is an entirely private venture.
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January 2024
COVER STORY: The changing face of metrology
Metrology has always been vital in precision manufacturing to ensure products meet both quality and design specifications. As industry demands have increased over the years, we have seen a transformation in measurement technology – advances in metrology and improvements to manufacturing capability typically go hand-in-hand. As Renishaw celebrates its 50th anniversary, Paul Maxted, Director of Industrial Metrology Applications at Renishaw, explores the changing role of metrology in manufacturing.
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Robotic Innovations presented with FANUC sales award
FANUC is proud to announce that Robotic Innovations has been chosen as the winner of the 2023 sales award for their outstanding sales of FANUC robots in South Africa. The award was presented by Dr Kiyonori Inaba at an event held during the iREX 2023 exhibition held in Tokyo.
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Multitrade Distributors reflects on 40 Years
Multitrade Distributors, a provider of tungsten carbide cutting tools and tool holders recently commemorated its 40th anniversary, marking four decades in the industry. The company, with its head-office based in Illiondale, Gauteng, was established by Johny Hansen and a former business partner has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the leading suppliers of cutting tools in South Africa.
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Metalformers adds 12kW fibre laser, material warehouse and drilling, tapping and counter sink machine to its processing equipment
Metalformers Pty Ltd is one of three associated companies processing sheet metal from the same facility in Industria, Gauteng. Hennie van Niekerk, the inventor of the Ultra Lock, the world’s first intentional emergency locking device for security gates, started his first engineering business, Henwill Engineering, in 1989.
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Gears for Africa cuts lead times with investment in new Penta BOLT VII 6025 15kW fibre laser cutting machine purchase
Machine has the ability to cut plate weighing up to 7 tons. Years ago, whenever you visited a precision sheet metal business the talk would be about what material they were cutting, the thickness of material and what speed they were achieving on their 2kW, 3kW or 6kW CO2 laser system. Then the disrupter – the fibre laser – was introduced.
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In loving memory of Dr Paul Potgieter: A legacy of inspiration and hope
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the unexpected passing of, Dr Paul Potgieter, founder of Aerosud, a South African aerospace engineering and manufacturing company. South Africa’s aerospace community has lost a giant with the death of Dr Paul Potgieter in a motor vehicle accident, writes Linden Burns, Managing Director of Plane Talking.
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Investors approach Botswana to build a new railway line just to avoid South Africa
Botswana has received unsolicited bids from investors to build a rail line to a Namibian port that will help avoid South Africa and its disintegrating logistics network. The 1 500 km Trans-Kalahari Railway project is gathering momentum as Transnet, the State rail and ports monopoly in Botswana’s southern neighbour, struggles to ship goods, according to Transport and Public Works Minister Eric Molale.
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All Africa Expo ISTMA 2023
The International Special Tooling and Machining Association (ISTMA), the global representative body for tooling manufacturing, hosted its 16th World Conference and General Assembly in Cape Town, South Africa in early November 2023. The event took place in collaboration with the Production Technologies Association of South Africa (PtSA). Metalworking News was invited to attend both the conference and the All Africa Expo.
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Dreams are big at TDL Engineering
A simple but powerful idiom was all it took to convince Daniël Lategan that it was time to start his own business and take a leap of faith that 12 years later is paying dividends in the form of success both personally as well as professionally for TDL Engineering, based in Triangle Farm, Cape Town. That phrase was that if your dreams don’t scare you, then they aren’t big enough.
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Copper price could rise over 75% to record highs by 2025
Supply squeeze helps copper prices buck tough year for base metals. Red metal known as a leading indicator on the global economy is set to be 2023’s top-performing industrial mineral. Copper prices are set to soar more than 75% over the next two years amid mining supply disruptions and higher demand for the metal, fuelled by the push for renewable energy, according to Lee Ying Shan in his CNBC article.
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Competition Commission welcomes the Tribunal’s confirmation of settlement agreement with the Allens Meshco Group
The Competition Commission has welcomed the Competition Tribunal’s order confirming a settlement agreement concluded between the Commission and the Allens Meshco Group (AMG) in connection with collusive conduct in the wire industry. AMG has agreed to pay an administrative penalty of R5 million for its involvement in cartel conduct within the wire industry.
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Transnet stops plan to allow private companies to operate key rail line
Transnet withdrew a request for quotes for an operating lease on a freight-rail artery that connects its biggest port with its industrial hub, because changes in the nation’s transport policy have affected the scope of the project. Transnet first issued the call for private-sector partners on the so-called Container Corridor linking Durban with Johannesburg on 27 January 2023, it said in a statement.
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The dtic calls for comments on the extension of the ban on scrap metal exports
There have been many further calls for the ban to be scrapped and these calls continue to grow. The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) has published a request for comments from interested parties on key aspects of the Scrap Metals Policy.
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Bell Equipment appoint Ashley Bell as new CEO
Bell Equipment Ltd have appointed Ashley Jon Bell, grandson of the company’s founder Irvine Bell, as new group chief executive officer, effective from 1 January 2024. This follows the resignation in July 2023 of Leon Goosen, who left the company on 31 December 2023 after 16 years of service, the last five and a half spent as group CEO.
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Fuchs Lubricants South Africa invests R218 million to increase local production capacity
Following the successful completion of its Phase One expansion at its Isando facility, Fuchs Lubricants South Africa is on track with the next phase of the project, which commenced in 2023 and expected to be completed in 2024 at a total cost of R218 million. Phase Two will see a 40% increase in lubricants production capacity.
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Kennametal introduces new cutting accessory to automate chip clearance
Kennametal Inc. has announced its newest metal cutting accessory – the Chip Fan. Its latest accessory to launch features a unique fan blade design activated by centrifugal force to support automated chip clearance, especially effective while operating unattended or lights-out machining.
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Machine Tools Africa 2024 set to take place in May 2024
Machine Tools Africa 2024, Africa’s only machine tools exhibition showcasing cutting edge developments across the machine tools and related industries is set to take place in May 2024. A Machine Tools Merchants’ Association of South Africa (MTMA) event, Machine Tools Africa will be taking place at the Expo Centre in Nasrec, Johannesburg, from 21 to 24 May 2024.
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IPG Photonics and Miller Electric announce strategic technology collaboration to deliver leading laser solutions to the handheld welding market
IPG Photonics Corporation, a global leader in fibre laser technology, and Miller Electric Mfg. LLC, a leading worldwide manufacturer of arc welding products, announced a strategic partnership with a goal to further promote laser solutions for handheld welding applications.
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November 2023
COVER STORY: New products from Retecon’s principles
The latest manufacturing technologies highlighted and some released at the recent EMO Hannover 2023. Leading supplier of machine tool, tooling, consumables, services and accessories supplier to the metalworking and related engineering industries, the Retecon Group, has highlighted a number of new products recently released by the companies that they represent in South Africa. Some were launched at the EMO Hannover 2023 exhibition held in September 2023.
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What can AI do in laser materials processing?
Automation and zero-defect production are important trends in machine construction. Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a major role in advancing both of them. Today, it can already detect deviations in process monitoring data and implement quality control in real time. In the future, AI will regulate many more processes and simplify process planning through assistance functions.
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Sandvik Coromant unveils new brand identity
To reflect its commitment to innovation and sustainable progress, Sandvik Coromant has launched a new brand identity. Integral to the new identity is a mindset called manufacturing wellness, highlighting the value of shaping resilient, thriving, sustainable manufacturers that positively impact their surroundings.
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Unveiling a new chapter in the history of tap manufacture – OSG announces new sustainable forming tap innovation “Green Tap”
A dominant topic of both conversation and components at EMO Hannover 2023 was that of decarbonisation in a move for industry as a whole to shift toward a low-carbon and circular economy. Celebrating its 85th anniversary, OSG gave its first ever press conference at this year’s EMO show and used the occasion to unveil one the measures it is taking to reduce its carbon footprint.
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Special Steels increases its capacity for deep hole drilling with the acquisition of Micron Technologies’ gun-drilling division
Engineering steel merchant and value-added processing company Special Steels has announced that it has acquired Micron Technologies’ gun-drilling division to expand the capacity of its existing drilling division. Through the acquisition Special Steels will add two drilling machines, one being a HTT gun drill and the other a HTT BTA deep hole drill.
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Combination Products signs agreement to represent Deed CNC machine tools
Gauteng based Combination Products has recently signed an agreement to represent Shandong Deed Precision Machine Tool, a Chinese manufacturer of CNC machine tools, in South Africa. One of the features of the product range is that all of Shandong Deed Precision Machine Tool’s machine bases and columns are cast in UHPC (Ultra high-performance concrete).
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Bell launches new Bell Heavy Industries division
Bell now offers specialist services of complex engineering, heavy fabrication and machining to all industries in the country through its newly formed division. Company says that Bell Equipment’s normal work could utilise the plant for one or two shifts, while a third shift could use the same equipment (such as plasma cutters) to make products such as railway bogies or excavator buckets.
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EMO Hannover 2023: A glimpse into the future of manufacturing
EMO Hannover 2023, the world’s premier trade fair for metalworking, has once again set the stage for innovation and excellence in the manufacturing industry with the show having taken place from September 18 to 23 2023. With an illustrious history, this biennial event stood up to its reputation as the global hub for innovations in the manufacturing sector.
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Actom invests R100 million in plant expansion in Pretoria
Actom, a leading supplier of electrical equipment, services, and balance of plant solutions to the renewable energy sector, has unveiled a significant investment plan to expand its Pretoria plant. Valued at R100 million, this investment initiative aims to bolster local manufacturing capacity in the electro-mechanical equipment industry while contributing to the growth of South Africa’s renewable energy sector and job creation.
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Benteler’s R500 million expansion in Port Elizabeth a boost for automotive manufacturing industry
The Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, Mr Ebrahim Patel, welcomes the expansion of the Benteler South Africa plant in Port Elizabeth. This development represents a significant milestone in South Africa’s thriving automotive manufacturing industry, reaffirming the nation’s growth trajectory and its status as a hub for automotive production, notably in the Eastern Cape Province.
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Centurion Systems: Automation in motion
There are many things that we take for granted in everyday life, though these are different for every person, they are still part of our daily lives and form part of the things we just don’t have to think about as we go about our daily routines and activities. Something we can all relate to however is automation, especially access automation of things like sliding gates and access controlled industrial high traffic barriers.
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Stainless steel sector fights for the right to supply local parastatal projects
The use of local stainless steel is crucial to driving demand and the subsequent beneficiation of this highly prized metal but work still needs to be done to cement the correct specifications of South African stainless steel components in key strategic projects. This is the view of the Southern African Stainless Steel Development Association (Sassda) which together with the local demand-creating structures of the Steel Master Plan (SMP) has identified and placed a focus on the following projects that can positively impact the local conversion of stainless steel.
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Babcock has successfully completed a complex steam air heater replacement project at one of South Africa’s largest power stations
As an OEM of hundreds of steam boilers in Africa, Babcock participated in the build of one of South Africa’s largest power stations, mainly focused on the HP piping systems construction. However, subsequently an event occurred at the power station that damaged one of the steam air heaters.
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Four million engines in 59 years – Ford’s Struandale Engine Plant celebrates major production milestones
Ford’s long and proud history in South Africa is inextricably linked to the city of Port Elizabeth (now known as Gqeberha) – after all, it’s where Ford Motor Company of South Africa was founded in 1923. Some 41 years later, Henry Ford II officially opened the Struandale Engine Plant. With an investment of R8 million in the new facility at the time, it positioned Ford as the first motor company in South Africa to manufacture engines locally.
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Japanese agency to assist South African companies make a mark globally in manufacturing
Launch of the QPI project, also known as Kaizen. The Chief Director of Automotives at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), Mkhululi Mlota says the Quality and Productivity Improvement (QPI) training programme will help give South Africa an edge over its competitors in manufacturing in the automotive sector. He was speaking at the launch of the QPI project, also known as Kaizen, in Johannesburg.
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Paramount well positioned to take advantage of global surge in armoured vehicle spending
Driven by the Russo-Ukraine conflict, armoured vehicle spending is seeing a global renaissance, and Paramount aims to take advantage of this with its 4 by 4, 6 by 6 and 8 by 8 armoured vehicle solutions. By 2035, the armoured vehicle market will see an anticipated $25.6 billion investment in 8 by 8 wheeled vehicles, according to a new report released last month.
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September 2023
COVER STORY: Tekenso’s eTrack adopts the very latest in software expertise and development platforms to ensure that users benefit from cutting edge advances in practices and technologies
Digitisation, automation, machine learning, Smart Factory, AI, AM, 3D, Industry 4.0, and Industry 5.0 has resulted in the digital integration of objects, including machinery and systems, that ‘talk’ to each other. From quote to invoice eTrack enables the provision of fast, accurate fabrication and manufacturing operational intelligence.
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Staycold International invests in new manufacturing equipment including a coil fed fiber laser cutting machine
Staycold, a leading South African manufacturer of self-contained commercial fridges and freezers primarily for the beverage and hospitality industries, has recently installed a LASER ISSE F3000 RS Turccut LP series coil fed 3kW fiber laser cutting machine. The company has also purchased a Hugong hand-held fiber laser welder and a Cannon injection foaming machine.
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Somta’s regrind and recoat service gets dedicated Walter Helitronic tool grinding machine
In order to meet the growing demand for carbide regrinds, Somta recently purchased a Walter Helitronic CNC machine and created a dedicated regrind facility in their carbide plant, which will double the volume of regrinds possible. Somta regrinds and recoats both its own tools as well as competitor tooling.
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PTF Manufacturing purchases 7 new CNC machines in the last 18 months
“Everybody talks about reshoring and you don’t pay much attention to it especially if your machine shop is busy and the company is experiencing growth. That is until it virtually ‘smacks you in the face’ and then you have to pay attention,” said joint owner Brandon Morris.
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EMO Hannover 2023 organisers VDW give journalists an insight into what to expect at the show in September 2023
More than 70 international editors and journalists from over 30 countries were guests of the VDW (Verein Deutscher Werkzeugmaschinenfabrikenn – German Machine Tool Builders’ Association) at the EMO Hannover 2023 Preview held in Frankfurt, Germany on the 5th and 6th July 2023. Metalworking News was one of the invited press members.
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Denel’s 155mm T5-52 self-propelled Howitzer achieved more than 60km range
State-owned defence company Denel held a successful capability demonstration from 15 to 17 August 2023 at the Alkantpan Test Range in Copperton in the Northern Cape, showcasing the fact that the company is back in business. It also confirmed that Denel is still at the forefront of global technological advancement in the field of artillery.
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Bodor reveals details of new global headquarters
The expansive 300 000 square metre headquarters is a state-of-the-art industrial park that encompasses cutting-edge research and development, advanced production, impressive showrooms, efficient administration, and a life zone, all designed to support Bodor’s strategic vision of leading the laser industry and co-creating a better human life.
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i-Theft foils PV panel theft
Roscher van Tonder, Founder/CEO of i-Fab says: “The idea comes from the ability to create individual designs at a fraction of the cost of traditional manufacturing and due to the increase in solar panel theft in South Africa it was the logical add on to your solar roof bracket range. So we developed the prototype, and here we are.”
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Mintek Metallurgy invests in Amazemet atomisation, alloy development equipment
It has been announced that mining and minerals technology research organisation Mintek has invested in an Amazemet rePowder ultrasonic atomisation and alloy development system, which can be used to create metal powder from any alloy in any feedstock form, even in small quantities, according to a report in Mining Weekly.
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Naamsa releases research report on African growth and opportunity act [AGOA]
AGOA’s extension and South Africa’s continued eligibility is crucial since it does support the continued growth and development of the automotive industry in South Africa. The 20 566 vehicles exported from South Africa to the US only comprised 0.14% of the total 14.23 million vehicles sold in the US.
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Growth at underground coal mining equipment manufacturer Churston necessitates a move into a larger facility
Churston, a Baughn Group company has relocated from its previous Industries East, Germiston headquarters to Lilianton, Boksburg, Gauteng. The company’s new building includes additional office space and a much larger manufacturing, warehouse and showroom facility, allowing it to offer a larger selection of products and services to the coal mining industry.
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P&A Fabricators wins Standard Bank KZN Top Business Award
P&A Fabricators has emerged as Standard Bank Client of the Year – Larger Enterprise. The company scooped the Standard Bank KZN Top Business category, which celebrates a larger enterprise and is a client with a more than a R100 million turnover per annum.
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Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) hosts its first stakeholder dialogue
Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) hosted its first Stakeholder Dialogue event at its East London Manufacturing Plant in August, bringing together multi-sectoral stakeholders with a keen interest in finding solutions to cross-cutting issues that affect the automotive industry and supply chain.
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Stellenbosch University and partners retrofit minibus taxi to run on electricity
“Electric vehicle manufacturers have a window of opportunity now to open plants in Africa to produce electric vehicles locally. Most of the locally manufactured petrol cars are being exported and this boon to the economy will end with developed countries transitioning to electric vehicles in the run-up to (or before) 2035,” said Prof Thinus Booysen.
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Steel industry is central to South Africa’s industrialisation path says government
“Steel is one of the most important materials in the world. It is present in most aspects of the economy, from transportation and other infrastructure to more simple aspects like containers. Steel is used in the production of colossal structures, as well as small components for precision instruments,” said Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister Fikile Majola.
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Ford ramps up production of Next-Gen Ranger, continues investing in world-class manufacturing
Ford’s major investment in its South African operations for the Next-Generation Ranger is delivering on its ambitious targets, achieving record production and the highest quality levels to date for the Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria. The Next-Gen Ranger was recently announced as the South African Car of the Year for 2023.
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Trumpf posts record revenue in its anniversary year
In its centennial year, the Trumpf Group generated considerable revenue growth. Based on preliminary calculations, revenue in the fiscal year 2022/23 (balance sheet date June 30, 2023) came in at 5.4 billion euros (fiscal year 2021/22: 4.2 billion euros). In the domestic market of Germany, revenue rose sharply by more than 30% to some 770 million euros.
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OPEN MIND at EMO 2023
The CAD/CAM manufacturer is more than aware of the importance of the world’s leading trade fair for manufacturing technology, which is why this year’s booth has been upgraded to be larger than ever before. Located in Hall 9 Booth A05 at the Hannover Exhibition Grounds, the stand covers 150 m² and will give visitors a chance to learn everything there is to know about the hyperMILL® CAD/CAM suite.
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Hurco to focus on automation and simple programming at EMO
Hurco’s focus at this year’s EMO on stand D68 in hall 12 will be on automation and simplification of programming processes. The company will demonstrate how freeform surfaces are easy to programme at the machine using the Hurco control system. Tried-and-tested parts handling systems will also be exhibited.
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Sandvik acquires CAM post processing software developer Postability
Sandvik has acquired Postability, a Canadian-based global software firm developing NC (numerical control) post processors for Mastercam. Postability’s offering will complement and strengthen Sandvik’s existing portfolio of Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) solutions. Postability will be a part of business unit Mastercam and be reported within business area segment Sandvik Manufacturing Solutions.
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July 2023
COVER STORY: Win-Sfeed is metalworking’s winning solution
A few years ago, TaeguTec introduced its advanced line of performance-driven cutting tools specifically formulated for the Industry 4.0 revolution. Just a short three years later, TaeguTec went further and improved upon the incredible performance of the Sfeed-Tec line with its next-generation cutting tools.
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Why wait? Ask an automation trainer for guidance
As a company dedicated to parts production automation, we estimate that the current automation rate of CNC machine tools tops out at 30 per cent. It seems surprisingly low, doesn’t it, for all the talk about it? For most CNC machine tool users, 30 per cent usage, or even a more realistic 50 per cent, begs the question: Why isn’t something that most manufacturers talk about happening in practice?
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BMW Group announces R4.2 billion investment to produce the new X3 in South Africa
The next generation of the BMW X3 will be produced as a plug-in hybrid from 2024. BMW will invest R4.2 billion over the next five years in its Rosslyn plant in South Africa to build the new-generation X3 sports-activity vehicle, including a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).
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Uno Engineering purchases Okuma LB4000 EX II turning center
Uno Engineering’s latest investment is an Okuma LB4000 EX II turning center that is built on Okuma’s Thermo-Friendly Concept to ensure minimal thermal growth and the slanted box bed construction translates into high rigidity. The machine is the first of its kind to be installed in South Africa.
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Turnstar upgrades sheet and tube cutting options
Turnstar is one of Africa’s largest manufacturers of secure physical access control products, offering a host of solutions, ranging from turnstiles and revolving doors to vehicle barriers. As such the company has invested in a new Bodor 12kW flat-bed fiber laser and a Bodor 3kW tube laser cutting machine with a loading system.
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Elegen increases sheet and tube cutting capacity as load shedding embeds into our society
One of South Africa’s largest privately-owned generator manufacturers and suppliers, Elegen, has had to make some smart investments coupled with putting in place strategic plans so as not to ‘drop the ball’ while trying to keep up with supply and demand for the Cummins and Perkins powered generators that the company supplies to Blue Chip companies, government and other private and corporate entities.
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Machining intelligently for better profitability at Iscar
A group of 15 South Africans involved in the engineering field of machining and metalworking visited Iscar’s Global Headquarters and Central Manufacturing Facilities, which are located in Tefen, Israel, to attend the Iscar customer seminar programme, hear about the latest trends and innovations in cutting tool technology and to view what it entails to manufacture world-class products that machine shops use every day.
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PFERD-South Africa’s Phillips outlines future trends driving metal fabrication
Dennis Phillips, National Sales Manager at PFERD-South Africa, outlines the future trends driving the local and international metal fabrication sectors and says the company’s CC-Grind Robust solution, recently developed by PFERD, will help to meet modern production needs.
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Aveng divests of Trident Steel to eliminate South African debt
“Post the closing of the sale of Trident Steel Aveng’s South African legacy debt has been fully cleared from a previous high of R3.3 billion. Specifically, the transaction proceeds have been partially used to fully settle the remaining South African legacy debt of R278 million and to fully settle the Trident Steel short-term trade finance facility of R450 million,” said the company.
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Planning on purchasing a new machine? Hein Nel of Sandvik Coromant explains why you should first consult with all the relevant suppliers
Optimising machine tool investment through cooperation: Manufacturers that purchase the right machines and cutting tools from the start save valuable time and maximise their return on investment. There are many factors to consider when making a decision to purchase a new CNC machine tool or another large capital equipment investment to process metal shapes or sheet into a component or product.
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Why not combine a visit to EMO Hannover 2023 and Schweissen & Schneiden
Visitors to either the EMO 2023 and Schweissen & Schneiden exhibitions taking place in Germany in September 2023 have the opportunity to visit both exhibitions. Schweissen & Schneiden takes place in Essen from 11 to 15 September 2023 and EMO Hannover 2023 takes place in Hannover from 18 to 23 September 2023.
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Mazak to exhibit 19 machines and 12 automation systems at EMO 2023
The Yamazaki Mazak exhibition stand at EMO 2023 in Hanover from 18 to 23 September this year, will showcase a total vision for modern machining that will enable machine users from across Europe to drive productivity and profitability. Located this year in Hall 15, Stand B14, Mazak will be showcasing a total of 19 machines and 12 automation systems.
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JA Engineering launches new continuous miner
JA Engineering launched its new low-mid-seam continuous miner machine at its headquarters in Boksburg recently. This locally manufactured continuous miner (JAE38 Wildcub) is a radio remote-controlled, highly productive continuous mining machine. Alongside this machine, two shuttle cars were also launched on the day.
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Competition Tribunal confirms Cape Gate settlement agreement in long steel cartel case
The Competition Tribunal (Tribunal) has approved, as an order, a settlement agreement whereby Cape Gate (Pty) Ltd (Cape Gate) agrees to pay a R1.3 million administrative penalty for alleged anticompetitive practices in the market for the production of long steel products in South Africa.
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Weldamax to acquire EWNS Enterprises
The Competition Commission has approved the proposed transaction whereby Weldamax intends to acquire EWNS, without conditions. Weldamax, which was purchased by Air Products South Africa last year, is directly controlled by Air Products South Africa (Pty) Ltd (APSA). APSA is jointly controlled by Air Products and Chemicals Incorporated (APCI) and Remgro Ltd (Remgro).
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May 2023
COVER STORY: Victor Taichung – suppliers of CNC machine tools and robotic handling equipment
With decades of expertise in the machine tool industry, Victor Taichung in South Africa has been supplying the Victor range of CNC machine tools, plastic injection moulding machines and robotic handling equipment to the local engineering market since 1986.
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Building trust in automation
Just as a personal trainer can help you meet personal goals, the same can be said about adopting new manufacturing methods for your business. Investing in an automation system – and partnering with key suppliers to customise a plan that fits your needs will result in leaner, more productive operations with more efficient outcomes.
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Cape Town to host 16th International Special Tooling and Machining Association World Conference (ISTMA 2023)
The City of Cape Town in South Africa will host the 16th International Special Tooling and Machining Association World Conference (ISTMA 2023) from 6 to 10 November 2023. The theme of the conference will be sustainable development, technical advances in tooling manufacturing and skills development.
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Competition Commission says it is launching a new market inquiry into the South African steel industry
On 7 April 2023, the Competition Commission (‘the Commission’), under the auspices of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), published a notice in the Government Gazette regarding the conducting of an inquiry into the steel market. In the said notice, the Commission invites the public to “provide information to the market inquiry”.
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WD Hearn Machine Tools appointed agents for multitasking mill-turn machine manufacturer Nakamura-Tome
“Unlike many machine tool brands, Nakamura-Tome has specialised in mill/turn centers and their pedigree stands out. Nakamura-Tome has an enviable history of developing modern machining methods and technological solutions, which are now used in machines all over the world,” commented Graeme Cooper, MD of WD Hearn Machine Tools.
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Axiom Hydraulics invests in Amada THV460 double head milling machine to process its Dura-Bar continuous cast ductile iron bar
Investment adds value-add service for customers wanting squared to size material that will save valuable machining time as the material arrives as machine-ready blanks and can be machined as soon as it is received.
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Scientific Engineering upgrades and increases fibre laser capacity with introduction of 6kW Hugong fibre laser
Scientific Engineering, a leading manufacturer of commercial appliances in Southern Africa, has recently upgraded and increased its laser cutting capacity with the installation of a 6kW Hugong fibre laser that was supplied by TRM Supplies. The company designs and manufactures its own range of products and product sales are generated through a worldwide dealer network.
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35.9% duty on certain steel products gazetted
The government has gazetted a 35.9% duty on certain steel products that are originating in or imported from the People’s Republic of China. This amounts to a total duty payable of 45.9% if the existing 10% custom duty is added. The products concerned are galvanised coil – flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel of a width of 600mm or more, clad, plated or coated, otherwise plated or coated with zinc, of a thickness of less than 0.45mm.
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Lack of maintenance funds hits Rooivalk and Oryx serviceability
Major underfunding means that two of the most important helicopter types in the South African Air Force – the Oryx transport and Rooivalk attack helicopter – are largely grounded, with only a handful serviceable at present writes Guy Martin of Defenceweb. Cuts to the defence budget mean there is little prospect of the situation improving.
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Somta Tools flies South African flag at EMO Hannover 2023
This year marks the 12th time that KwaZulu-Natal-based Somta Tools will participate at the international metalworking exhibition. Somta Tools will once again be flying the South African flag by exhibiting at the internationally renowned EMO exhibition, which is taking place from 18 to 23 September 2023 in Hannover, Germany.
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Industry stakeholders gather to map decarbonisation challenges and opportunities in the iron and steel value chain
On 18 April, the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (the dtic) in South Africa, within the ambit of the Steel and Metal Fabrication Master Plan 1.0, hosted a workshop to discuss challenges and opportunities to decarbonise the country’s iron and steel value chain.
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Bell Equipment gears up to become a lean, mean global machine
The company raises German production to increase efficiencies. Bell Equipment CEO Leon Goosen says ramping up production of its flagship trucks in its German factory will increase efficiencies as the product will be closer to its main market and free up space in the SA factory for the manufacturing of new product ranges.
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CSIR appoints industry experts to the manufacturing advisory panel for alignment with sector priorities
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has appointed a manufacturing industry advisory panel to align its manufacturing efforts with industry priorities. The appointment is part of the CSIR industrialisation strategy, which is aimed at driving economic growth and job creation in South Africa.
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What the new European ban on fossil fuel-powered cars means
With exports on the rise, South Africa has solidified its status as a key participant in the global automotive market. However, in March 2023 the European Parliament officially approved a law to ban the sale of new fossil fuel-powered cars by 2035 to combat climate change and transition to electric vehicles, with a mandate for carmakers to achieve 100% CO2 emission cuts by that date.
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CBAM could be a huge blow for exports in South Africa
R27 billion a year of South African exports are at risk after the European Union (EU) introduced the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). As reported by City Press, the CBAM is a strategy for reaching the EU’s 2050 carbon emissions goal. It will impact South Africa’s steel, aluminium, iron, cement, fertiliser, electricity and hydrogen exports.
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Sassda questions why stainless steel not first choice for local projects
Creating increased demand for South African stainless steel within key sectors such as mining, automotive and food and beverage is a key area of focus for the Southern Africa Stainless Steel Development Association (Sassda) in 2023. This was the view of Sassda Executive Director Michel Basson in a recent webinar on the ‘State of the Stainless Steel Nation’.
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Apex Metrology Solutions brings the latest quality management software and scanning solutions to South Africa
The world is expanding and becoming even more connected. New markets are opening and environmental pressure is being put on governments and multi-national companies. As a result it is changing the way components and products are manufactured. There is no place to hide and lack of knowledge is not taken lightly.
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March 2023
COVER STORY: The promising segment – Iscar
It is apparent that 5-axis machining is becoming increasingly popular in modern metal cutting. 5-axis machining provides significant advantages such as machining complex-shaped parts by use of one setup without changing the location of the workpiece, high-machining accuracy and reduced cycle time.
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Hallspeed navigates toward a new future
It is pedal to the metal at Hallspeed, located close South Africa’s famous Kyalami race track (Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit) in Midrand, as new owner Shameer Variawa gets behind the wheel of his new venture of steering the company who helps build the vehicles he so loves to race.
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SAHPRA gets tough on license regulations for the safe use of industrial fibre laser machines
All fibre laser machine owners have to register with the authority and obtain a license. The benefits of fibre laser processing in manufacturing have been widely demonstrated over past decades and recently, fibre laser welding has received increased interest. Now more than ever, the concept and practice of laser safety is a moving target.
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TRM Supplies install 40 fibre laser welders in the last 14 months
A few years ago TRM Supplies recognised the potential of the fibre laser welder and began importing the Hugong HGLW fibre laser welders, which are available in 1kW, 1.5kW and 2kW power source and have a maximum thickness weld of 8mm. The machines are a compact design and are fully assembled before shipment.
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ArcelorMittal South Africa says profit fell 62% on weak steel prices, demand
ArcelorMittal South Africa’s full-year profit declined by 62% due to weaker steel prices and demand at a time when costs were driven up by significant price increases of key inputs such as coal, the company said at the release of its latest financial results.
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Alstom has supported over 9 000 jobs in South Africa, according to EY report
Alstom, a global leader in sustainable and green mobility solutions, has released a report in collaboration with Ernst & Young (EY) capturing the company’s socio-economic contributions from April 2021 to March 2022. It highlights the support of over 9 000 jobs and R3.9 billion injected into South Africa as Alstom continues to grow its local presence.
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PFERD’s Dennis Phillips gives his top five trends for the metalworking industry in 2023
“As metalworking industries develop, so do associated industries and products. One such industry is abrasive manufacturers, and it is expected that numerous new initiatives and developments will be seen throughout 2023. These are my five predictions for the year ahead,” commented Phillips who is the National Sales Manager at PFERD-South Africa.
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Matthew And Son Engineering links into transport industry
Six new DN Solutions CNC machines have been purchased. Matthew And Son Engineering’s recent impressive growth can mostly be attributed to its success in the rail transport industry. “We have had clients in this sector for a number of years and they have been very good to us.
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EMO Hannover 2023 focuses on current production technologies
Want to learn about the latest in production technology? Production experts visiting EMO Hannover 2023 will be doing just this in September 2023. They can experience live and on site the latest trends at a total of four joint booths.
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Neasa says the steel industry is dying a slow death: Some might differ
In a recent communication to members and industry Gerhard Papenfus, Chief Executive of NEASA (The National Employers Association of South Africa) said the steel industry is dying a slow death. “The contribution of South African manufacturing to our GDP has declined, from its peak around 23% in the early 1980s, to its current level of approximately 12%.”
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Approval given for Trident Steel’s buyout of Aveng subsidiary
The Competition Commission has approved the proposed transaction whereby Trident Steel subsidiary Trident Steel Africa (TSA) intends to acquire Aveng subsidiary Aveng Trident Steel (ATS), with conditions. The commission says it is of the view that the proposed transaction is unlikely to substantially lessen or prevent competition in the steel processing market within South Africa.
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US Treasury secretary visits the upgraded Ford Motor Company’s Silverton assembly plant in Pretoria
US Treasury secretary Janet Yellen recently visited the upgraded Ford Motor Company’s Silverton assembly plant in Pretoria. The plant is one of two in the country. Earlier that day, she met the Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana. Yellen’s stop in Pretoria was part of her three-country tour of Africa that began in Senegal.
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China Baowu Steel Group Corporation Limited acquires Sinosteel Group Corporation Limited
Samancor Chrome Holdings, Aquila Steel and Baosteel Mining are some of the companies involved in takeover. The Competition Commission has recently approved the proposed transaction whereby China Baowu intends to acquire Sinosteel, without conditions.
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Chart Industries Inc acquires private company that owns Howden Group South Africa
The Competition Commission has also approved the proposed transaction whereby Chart Industries intends to acquire Granite Holdings II B.V., without conditions. The primary acquiring firm is Chart Industries, a public company incorporated in accordance with the company laws of the State of Delaware, USA.
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West Rand Engineering (WRE) and Malleable Castings swallowed up in acquisition by the Baobab Industrial Group
The Competition Commission has approved another proposed transaction whereby Holdco intends to acquire DLM and WRE, without conditions. The acquiring firm HoldCo (Baobab Industrial Group), a newly incorporated private company, does not conduct any business operations and is not directly or indirectly controlled by any other firm.
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RAPDASA Conference will again be joined by the Robotics and Mechatronics, PRASA and Advanced Materials Initiative conferences
The Rapid Product Development Association of South Africa (RAPDASA) has announced that it will be joined for its 24th Annual International Conference by the 16th Robotics and Mechatronics (RobMech), the 34th Pattern Recognition Association of South Africa (PRASA) and the 4th South African Advanced Materials Initiative (CoSAAMI) conferences for its annual conference that will be held later this year.
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Naamsa’s review of automotive business conditions: New motor vehicle manufacturing industry for 4th quarter 2022
New vehicle sales increased by 16% compared to the corresponding quarter 2021 but only by 0.1% compared to the previous quarter 2022 highlighting the above expectations performance in 2022 but at the same time the impact of supply chain disruptions and economic pressures on the new vehicle market.
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Only one of the South African Navy’s four frigates operational. No submarines serviceable
The majority of the South African Navy’s primary combat vessels are not operational, with the frigate SAS Mendi’s seaworthiness prioritised for Armed Forces Day and Exercise Mosi II, writes Guy Martin of Defenceweb. This is according to an Armscor presentation to the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans (PCDMV) on 15 February, which detailed the maintenance status of the SA Navy’s frigates and submarines.
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January 2023
COVER STORY: Stillam Group Holdings – smart manufacturing solutions for a bright future
This month’s cover features the Stillam Group of companies, a group that consists of Stillam CNC Programming Solutions, B&R Metrology Solutions, iKusasa CNC Training Centre and Trading Places Manufacturing Recruitment. Despite the diversity of application, the Stillam Group of companies have one thing in common. They all address the rising challenges of achieving manufacturing efficiency and bring huge value to the operations where they are deployed.
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A tribute and farewell to Burkhard Herrmann
Born on the 19th July 1944 in the town of Neustadt in the Principality of Schleswig Holstein, Northern Germany Hans-Burkhard Erik Horst Herrmann sadly passed away on the 16th December 2022 following a short, serious illness. A fulfilled life has come to a peaceful end in the presence of close family and friends.
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ROVD Engineering manufactures large salt harvesting machine for Botswana client
Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), Eastern Cape-based ROVD Engineering have manufactured a large salt harvesting machine that is capable of harvesting 600 tons of unprocessed salt per hour. The machine has been manufactured for Botswana client Botswana Ash, which is a joint venture company formed between the Botswana government and private investors.
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Steel import tariffs destroying local manufacturing efforts
Tal-Tec’s Greg Talbot, MD of the Brits-based local manufacturer of modular farming solutions for managing livestock, describes how South Africa’s steel import tariffs are impacting the competitiveness of his business. “For manufacturers of steel products in South Africa, 2021 was dismal, triggered by unprecedented shipping delays out of China,” said Talbot.
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JIMTOF 2022: They say seeing is believing or go and do the Gemba walk and Genchi Genbutsu – go see for yourself
Genchi Genbutsu is the Japanese principle of going to and directly observing a location and its conditions in order to understand and solve any problems faster and more effectively. The phrase literally translated means “go and see for yourself” and is a part of the Toyota Way philosophy.
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EuroBLECH 2022 returns to live event format
The 26th edition of the International Sheet Metal Working Technology Exhibition, EuroBLECH 2022, took place from 25 to 28 October 2022 in Hanover, Germany. Following the easing of Covid restrictions the world’s largest trade event for sheet metal processing went ahead as planned.
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Can South Africa’s steel master plan revitalise the local steel sector?
The World Steel Association has lowered its forecast for steel demand for 2022, anticipating that demand will have contracted by 2.3% this year as the global economy struggles with macroeconomic headwinds. South Africa’s steel industry has been under pressure for years as a result of a prolonged period of economic decline.
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Machine Tools Africa 2024 set to take place in May 2024
Machine Tools Africa 2024, Africa’s biggest and only machine tools exhibition showcasing cutting edge developments across the machine tools and related industries was announced in November 2022. A Machine Tools Merchants’ Association of South Africa (MTMA) event, Machine Tools Africa will be taking place at the Expo Centre in Nasrec, Johannesburg, from 21-24 May 2024.
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PRASA welcomes ban on trade of scrap metal
The Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) has welcomed government’s decision to ban the trade of scrap metal, as it will significantly improve its ability to run trains and protect the rail infrastructure. “The theft of cables and metals have badly damaged our network. It is more than theft, it is sabotage of economic infrastructure,” said PRASA’s Acting Group CEO Hishaam Emeran last year.
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Transnet welcomes measures by the government to restrict and regulate trade in scrap metal products
377 export coal trains cancelled and 742km of cable lost nationally from April 2022 due to theft and resultant security risks. Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) has welcomed measures by the government to restrict and regulate trade in scrap metal products to limit damage to infrastructure and the economy.
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Titanus Slew Rings buys huge DMG MORI machining center
Recently installed is a high-speed 5-axis DMU 340 P machining center. Today’s manufacturing customer demands world class precision tooling and exceptional customer service, says Titanus Slew Rings (TSR), formerly known as Titanus Engineering, who says it is perfectly positioned to deliver those requirements to customers from its facility in Meadowdale, Isando, Gauteng.
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Archie Engineering adds capacity and size to their CMM measuring window
For a company that depends on its reputation for manufacturing safety critical components and other products for the mining industry, the quality department plays a pivotal role in the day-to-day tasks in the measurement of components, surface inspection, linear dimension measurements, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing analysis to monitor production quality from the shop floor.
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WD Hearn Machine Tools appointed the agent for E-tech surface, cylindrical and rotary grinders
WD Hearn Machine Tools has announced that it has been appointed the agent for E-tech surface, cylindrical and rotary grinders in South Africa. E-tech is a Taiwanese manufacturer based in the Daya District of Taichung City, Taiwan and also has a subsidiary in California servicing the US market. Established in the 1950s, E-tech has been working in the sector of machinery for over 70 years.
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Scrap metal ban: My business will not survive the six months
The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition announced recently that it was imposing a six-month prohibition on the export of scrap copper and ferrous metals. But not everybody was as happy though with the Metal Recyclers Association (MRA) holding the opinion that the new rules would not yield the desired results.
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DA rejects Patel’s announcement to ban the export of scrap metal
In a statement released by the opposition party in South Africa, the Democratic Alliance, in early December 2022 the DA has rejected the ban on the export of scrap metal. The statement read: “Yesterday the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Ebrahim Patel, joined by the Minister of Police, Bheki Cele, and Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan, delivered a briefing on the regulations put forward by the Government which will supposedly curb the theft of copper and ferrous metals.”
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Barnes Group to increase Scaw’s steelmaking capacity
Barnes Group CEO Doron Barnes, whose company acquired Scaw Metals, together with its Haggie and McKinnon Chain units in May 2018, has announced in an Engineering News article that it is to invest in new steel making plant to increase Scaw’s steelmaking capacity from about 500 000 tons per year to 650 000 tons per year.
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November 2022
COVER STORY: How Trumpf is making sheetmetal fabrication simpler, more productive and more sustainable
Trumpf showcased a range of solutions to make sheetmetal fabrication more sustainable at this year’s EuroBLECH trade fair. The high-tech company aims to leverage its position as a solution provider to help customers make their factories more competitive and eco-friendly.
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Capacity enhancing strategies in a tight labour market
With the current headwinds buffeting the manufacturing industry and economy in general, it’s imperative that shops evaluate and optimise their manufacturing processes to improve productivity and profitability. Even with supply-chain challenges and a shortage of skilled labour, there are steps shops should take to maximise performance.
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Somta Tools appointed agent for Korloy indexable cutting tools
Somta Tools has announced that the company has been appointed as an agent for South Korean company Korloy, a manufacturer of indexable cutting tools, tooling systems and clamping devices. The agreement was effective the beginning of November 2022 and it allows Somta Tools to market Korloy’s extensive range of products throughout the region.
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New player in simulation software solutions arena – Simutron – appointed as channel partner for Altair products
“No, we are not the latest AVR simulator or aviator game developer. The only association we have is that we all work in the software space but Simutron is on another level compared to those products. We present products that give you the opportunity to unlock your future, offering you access to superior simulation and high-performance computing, no matter the size of your business,” said Quintin Burger, Director of Simutron.
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Tysica Laser takes delivery of 12kW Bodor fibre laser
“We were one of the early adopters in South Africa when it came to recognising the advantages and benefits of using fibre laser cutting for processing metal. From the establishment of our company back in 2000 we had used CO2 as the source for our Bystronic lasers. It was the recognised medium used universally in the laser cutting world but, in the background changes were developing in the laser cutting world,” said Colin Dallas.
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Ultrafab installs fifth hand-held fibre laser welding system
“In our business it is not just about making products, it is about making the best products in the most effective way. Early in 2021 we invested in a Penta Swan hand-held fibre laser for welding. Laser welding isn’t new. The technology has proliferated for years in select industries like automotive, medical, defence and aerospace,” said Derrick van Niekerk of Ultrafab, one of two brothers working in the family business established by Dad Hennie.
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WD Hearn Machine Tools appointed agents for Glorystar Laser Technology cutting systems
Cape Town-headquartered WD Hearn Machine Tools have announced that they have been appointed the agents for Glorystar Laser Technology, a worldwide operating, Chinese manufacturer of flat sheet and tube fibre laser cutting machines. Headquartered in the Niushan International Industrial Area, Dongguan, Guangdong, China Glorystar was established in 2002 and is a manufacturer of laser cutting equipment, laser welding machines, marking equipment and laser cleaning machines.
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Steel Report shows that protecting ArcelorMittal is not benefitting South Africa
The recent publication of the first Steel Report by the South African Iron and Steel Institute (SAISI) confirms what Duferco has been arguing for a while: The government’s attempts to use tariffs to protect the local steel industry in the person of ArcelorMittal South Africa (AMSA) have backfired spectacularly. As a result of this flawed approach, argues Duferco CEO Ludovico Sanges, government has effectively gutted the country’s ability to produce its own steel, at a huge cost in jobs.
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JHPE Precision Engineering takes delivery of the first Fanuc Robocut α-C400iC in South Africa
Contract manufacturer of precision mechanical components for various industries JHPE Precision Engineering has taken delivery of the first Fanuc Robocut α-C400iC in South Africa. The Robocut α-C400iC was launched internationally in May 2021 and is built on the success of its Robocut predecessors but with an updated design and many more powerful features.
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Flexilube develop multi-functional hydraulic, slideway and gearbox lubricant
NanoTritech set to minimise and rationalise stock holding in machine shops. Flexilube, a leading South African manufacturer of metalworking fluids has developed and launched a multi-functional hydraulic, slideway and gearbox lubricant that will minimise and rationalise stock holding of three standard products that are traditionally used in machine shops.
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Over 30 000 visitors at this year’s Electra Mining Africa
Celebrating 50 years this year, Electra Mining Africa saw thousands of buyers and sellers coming together at the Expo Centre in Nasrec, Johannesburg from 5 to 9 September 2022 to meet in-person and see the latest innovations and new products, services and technologies that were on display at the show.
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Simteq Engineering’s 2022 Users Conference
Simteq Engineering recently held its annual Users Conference at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria, Gauteng. The conference aims to bring together clients and suppliers based around the MSC Software platform. The conference was first held in 2019 and has now turned into an annual event.
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[WATCH] High-tech Ford frame line commences manufacturing for Next-Generation Ranger
The final and largest piece of Ford Motor Company’s R15.8 billion investment puzzle for its South African operations has slotted into place with its new Frame Line commencing operations in preparation for the start of Next-Generation Ranger production later this year.
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Former Highveld Steel structural mill revived
ArcelorMittal’s acquisition aims to supply railway resurgence in South Africa. Given significant potential to modernise and expand the rail network in South Africa and elsewhere in Africa, steps are being taken to revive the former Highveld Structural Mill which was the sole producer of mainline rail in sub-Saharan Africa.
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JIMTOF 2022 announces record number of exhibitors
The Japan International Machine Tool Fair, JIMTOF 2022, is one of the largest machine tool exhibitions in the world, organised by the Japan Machine Tool Builders’ Association (JMTBA) and Tokyo Big Sight Inc. It will be held at Tokyo Big Sight in Tokyo, Japan from 8 November to 13 November 2022.
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VW Group shows faith in Fanuc with order for 1 300 robots
The majority of the robots will be installed at Volkswagen’s manufacturing facility in Bratislava, Slovakia. “We are delighted that we can now extend our longstanding and trusted cooperation with Volkswagen to the Bratislava plant,” says Ralf Winkelmann, Managing Director of Fanuc Deutschland GmbH.
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Lamiera 2023 to take place at Fieramilano Rho from 10 to 13 May 2023
This morning, a preview of the 22nd edition of Lamiera was presented to the international press. The international exhibition for sheet metal processing and sheet metal forming machines and related technologies is scheduled to take place at fieramilano Rho from 10 to 13 May 2023.
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Blaser’s high-speed videos analyse machining processes in fine detail
Blaser Swisslube captures the machining process, chip formation and behaviour of its Synergy 735 metalworking fluid through high-speed, macro photos and videos. Swiss metalworking fluids experts Blaser Swisslube conducted an extensive series of tests at its in-house technology centre to analyse machining processes down to the finest detail.
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September 2022
First Cut: Total cutting, welding and grinding solutions
Servicing industry for over 65 years. After building its history and reputation on a solid base of manufacture and distribution of hacksaws, bandsaws, butcher saws and various hand tools, First Cut has evolved into a company that now offers a total solution and a focused range of products providing cutting, welding and grinding solutions for a wide variety of industries – including steel, timber, meat and food, foam, plastics, composites, textiles and the DIY trade.
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Hi-Tech Machine Tools to represent milling cutter specialists Hofmann & Vratny and the Freddy Products family of industrial recycling vacuums and coolant filtration machines
Hofmann & Vratny (H&V Tooling) a leading manufacturer of solid carbide milling cutters based near Munich, Bavaria, Germany and UK company Freddy, a manufacturer of industrial recycling vacuums and coolant filtration machines have both recently appointed Hi-Tech Machine Tools to market and service their products in South Africa.
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Digital ERP/QMS/MES systems are valuable tools to recruit and retain employees
The job landscape has changed significantly in a Covid- 19 world. While people are returning to the office or the shop, the experience is somewhat different. They now return to hybrid work environments, fewer people on the shop floor, and supply chain issues among other things. Digital systems have helped companies stay afloat during the pandemic, connecting employees working remotely to the workplace and to each other.
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Adding a Hugong HGLW hand-held fibre laser welder to job shop environment makes sense to Davox
One-time seller of fabricating equipment now runs a shop aimed for present-day, upcoming challenges. “We regard ourselves as an industrial design and manufacturing company. We like to do R&D work with our customers to improve their products and improve our processes so that we have a more productive and profitable manufacturing base,” explains owner Stig Rasmussen, who took control of Davox in 2016.
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Fibre laser cutting making a difference at Budget Sheet Metal
Company embraces technology to increase production velocity and quality. While lasers are not the answer for every application, they can provide flexibility, efficient material use and a repeatable, controlled process. In the past, material considerations had to be taken into account as laser cutting became less effective when material thickness increased.
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MAN Energy Solutions SA powers up its manufacturing capabilities in Vanderbijlpark
MAN Energy Solutions SA is the local arm of the global engineering entity MAN Energy Solutions responsible for converting energy into sustainable progress and prosperity. Manufacturing and servicing energy equipment, and providing industry-leading technical support, has always been at the forefront of the local arm but this was heightened when the company acquired local rotating equipment manufacturer Elca Engineering, in 2014.
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Bodor confident of expansion in South African market
Nowadays, with the rapid development of the Chinese market, many Chinese laser equipment manufacturers are making their presence felt in the global market, a market where the competition is extremely fierce. Leading the way in South Africa is Bodor, a company that has now turned its full attention to the manufacture of fibre laser cutting machines in its 27 000m² facility in Jinan, Shandong, China.
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Sandvik Coromant hosts clients at networking event
In July Sandvik Coromant held a networking event where invited clients and suppliers to the industry attended. The aim of the event was to offer an opportunity for comprehensive customer and partner engagement. The Swedish engineering group moved its South African headquarters to a new, purpose-designed facility in Kempton Park, near Johannesburg, to enhance its commitment to the southern African region.
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Ceratizit Group expands its reach in South Africa with partnership agreement with Multitrade Distributors
Multitrade Distributors now offers the full range of The Ceratizit Group products to the South African market. The Ceratizit Group, a high-technology engineering group specialising in cutting tools and hard material solutions, and Multitrade Distributors, a tungsten carbide cutting tool supplier based in South Africa have officially partnered in order to better support the South African engineering and metalworking industries.
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Transnet takes on China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation in court to make available spare parts
Transnet has launched an application at the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria to compel the China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) to make available imported spare parts and components which are critical to service and maintain certain locomotives. CRRC is one of four original equipment manufacturers that were lined up to supply 1 064 new locomotives to Transnet.
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Six-month scrap metal ban to combat cable and metal theft proposed by the government
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) has gazetted its draft policy proposals to regulate and restrict the trade of scrap metal in South Africa for public comment. The draft policy changes are a direct outcome of president Ramaphosa’s 2022 State of the Nation Address, where he promised to tackle growing instances of criminality in the scrap metal value chain, particularly with copper theft.
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South Africa’s steel consumption will miss the 5 ton target says SAISI
“After an exceptional recovery in steel consumption post Covid-19, apparent steel consumption was 5.1 million tonnes for the year in 2021. This was a 36% year-on-year increase in the country’s steel use. Included in the steel consumption however was the unexpected 1.6 million tons of imported primary steel products, equalling 31% of the country’s overall steel consumption. The reason for the high import levels was ascribed to limited local supply to address pent-up demand caused by the pandemic.”
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July 2022
TaeguTec works energetically to provide the best customer solutions
“Cutting tools will have to adapt to remove less metal but at much faster speeds and feeds. The cutting tool can have a huge impact on productivity. Not every company can buy the latest machine tools but changing to our cutters means the tools can run at very high speeds with a minimum amount of downtime. TaeguTec’s new tools will enable machinists to perform metal cutting at a rate similar to that found in the woodworking industry,” said Jacob Harpaz, President and CEO of the IMC Group.
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Adaptive manufacturing key to thriving amid volatility
Many manufacturers are locked in on a strategy for success that has served them well for years. But tried-and-tested manufacturing strategies have been upended by unpredictable market demands and supply chains, rising costs, shipping delays and staffing shortfalls.
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Gühring South Africa upgrades regrinding facility
“Gühring offers a complete reconditioning service for carbide end mills, including refurbishing of used tools and the addition of corner radius. In addition to standard helix end mill designs, our reconditioning division can also recondition Gühring variable flute and variable helix carbide end mills,” explained Gerald Green, Managing Director of Gühring Cutting Tools South Africa.
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Creating a robotic solution to meet weighty component machining challenges at Vula Drilling [VIDEO]
Worker safety is always the first priority when working with new equipment or tools. However, manual loading of heavy housings or components onto a machine for further processing should be treated with equal caution, if not more so. It is one thing lifting 45 kilograms of weights above your head while lying on a bench in the gym, in fact it is a relatively easy task for most fit humans, but it is another trying to load the same amount of weight into the jaws on a CNC machine.
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What a high-powered 30kW Penta fiber laser means for Fast Flame Profiling
It’s more than just cutting thick materials. It’s also about cutting process time. First of its kind in South Africa. Fabricators don’t have to be an expert in fiber laser cutting technology to know that if they can cut 6mm sheet with a 4kW laser, they can cut it faster with an 8kW laser power source. Now think what they can do with a 30kW fiber laser cutting machine.
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U&L Engineering increases capabilities and capacity for large part machining
By adding new machines, this company has earned new business they wouldn’t even have considered in the past and that allowed them to deliver large precision-machined parts to their customers much faster than ever before. U&L Engineering has been repairing, overhauling and remanufacturing equipment in the field for some years now.
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Walter Meano Engineering installs Aberlink Axiom CMM
Coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) have been around since the 1960s. In most precision manufacturing facilities, the CMM is the company’s chief dimensional measurement device that is traceable to the standards maintained by the national standards authority of the relevant country. Most CMMs are used to verify dimensional accuracy for quality control (QC) and first-article inspection.
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World-first launch of leak-proof oxyfuel system at compressed gas safety conference
First Cut, Messer Cutting Systems, Gas Safety International and BED collaborate in developing new safety valve, torch and process that will lessen the possibility of a gas leakage taking place due to either worker negligence or an accidental breakage in the compressed gas supply line.
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Doosan Machine Tools changes name to DN Solutions
Doosan Machine Tools announced that it will change its name to DN Solutions and be reborn as a total manufacturing solutions provider. The new name will be effective as of June 2, and signifies a new start after the merger with DN Automotive, which became its new parent company in January 2022.
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EuroBLECH 2022 is confirmed to take place in October 2022
Following the latest easing of Covid restrictions, show organiser Mack-Brooks Exhibitions confirmed that the 26th edition of the International Sheet Metal Working Technology Exhibition, EuroBLECH 2022, will take place from 25 to 28 October 2022, in Hannover, Germany. The current exhibitor list stands at 1 257 companies from 39 nations, covering a total net exhibition space of over 88 000m².
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JIMTOF 2022: The 31st Japan International Machine Tool Fair
The Japan Machine Tool Builders’ Association (JMTBA) and Tokyo Big Sight Inc. will host the upcoming event, JIMTOF 2022, that will be held in Tokyo Big Sight from 8 November to 13 November 2022. JIMTOF 2022 will be using all of the exhibition halls of Tokyo Big Sight, including the South Hall, which opened in 2019. JIMTOF 2022 will be held with 861 exhibitors and a record number of 5 610 booths in total.
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South African-designed camper-trailer receives prestigious international Red Dot Design Award
South Africa has taken centre stage in the international design industry when EdgeOut – the South African-designed and a world-first rotomoulded teardrop camper-trailer designed for use on tar and gravel roads – was awarded the prestigious Red Dot Design Award 2022 in the category Product Design in Germany in June this year.
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Guinness World Records officially recognises Macsteel world record for the longest roof span
In an epic display of pursuing reinvention with their pioneering technology, Macsteel did the nation proud when they broke a world record to become the new Guinness World Records title holder for the longest roof span covered by a single metal corrugated sheet. The sheet spans 280 metres, across the widest part of the roof covering the new Pick n Pay flagship distribution centre in Kempton Park, Gauteng.
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PDTS medical device product development unit has specifically designed the cranial protector
Patient-specific medical devices. Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes unprovoked, recurring seizures. It is a condition that affects about 50 million people around the world according to WHO (World Health Organisation). Anyone can be affected by it but it mostly onsets in young children and this has a bad effect on their daily lives.
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NEASA believes that the Plastic Converters’ Association of South Africa has betrayed the steel industry. All to do with wage negotiations
The National Employers Association of South Africa (NEASA) has released a statement that it claims the steel industry has been betrayed. The statement, in the form of a letter, was published in June 2022 by the association. “Dear Steel Industry employer…”
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Power outages/loadshedding and strikes: Engineering company owners exasperated
Company owners, directors and managers have been expressing their frustration on the social medium platform of LinkedIn. This is what they had to say in response to the initial post below. “One of our suppliers went out of business today and all due to two PREVENTABLE things: 1. Power outages (“loadshedding”) and 2. Strikes (Sibanye/Numsa).
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Copper could be the ‘new gold’ for South Africa
Big Tree Copper chief executive Jan Nelson expects a steady climb in demand for the red metal over the next three decades, according to a Businesstech report. This, as the world, has turned its full attention to sustainable energy and a greener economy. Recent panic over the conflict in Ukraine and its subsequent threat to Europe’s reliance on Russian energy saw a surge in the metal trade to around $10 900 per ton (R169 700).
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Hypertherm changes its corporate name to Hypertherm Associates
Hypertherm is changing its corporate name to Hypertherm Associates, a name that represents the company’s evolution from a manufacturer of plasma cutting products to a multi-technology provider of industrial cutting solutions, with its people at the heart of everything it does to support and solve customer challenges.
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Addressing industry skills shortages by engaging in the new QCTO framework
In its global risk barometer for 2022, international financial services provider Allianz surveyed 2 650 risk experts in 89 countries on the biggest perils facing industries in the coming year. Notably, skills shortages were identified as the eighth biggest risk in South Africa currently.
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United Grinding and Titans of CNC to launch new grinding academy
United Grinding and Titans of CNC, a manufacturing group of part-makers, influencers and educators, have collaborated to launch the all-new Grinding Academy. Much like Titans’ existing machining and aerospace academies, the Grinding Academy will offer free online courses that teach and train the next generation of machinists.
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Modern Machine Shop has released the results of the 2021 World Machine Tool Survey
Modern Machine Shop has released the results of the 2021 World Machine Tool Survey (WMTS). Cautiously optimistic. Encouraged. Just shy of a happy dance. These descriptors may apply to you after reviewing results of the 2021 World Machine Tool Survey.
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May 2022
Victor Taichung introduces the Victor Vturn-A200YSCM CNC horizontal turn-mill with Y-axis and a sub-spindle and the multitasking VMT-X200 milling and turning center
As part of its growing portfolio of machine tools, Victor Taichung has now introduced the Victor Vturn-A200YSCM CNC horizontal turn-mill with Y-axis and a sub-spindle. An upgrade of Victor Vturn-A20Y, which was only launched in 2021, the Victor Vturn-A200YSCM turn-mill has a belt driven spindle speed of 4 200rpm as standard instead of a built-in speed of 5 000rpm (optional) on the previous model.
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Somta Tools takes delivery of two Lasit fibre laser marking systems
Continuing with the journey of investing in new technology to enhance its manufacturing facilities so as to improve the finish and geometry of the tools that the company manufactures and to reduce setup and cycle times, Somta Tools, an OSG Corporation company that is regarded as a global leader in the manufacture of round cutting tools and a company that is listed on the Tokyo stock exchange, has purchased two (Open Frame) Miniopen FR Z20 G20 fibre laser marking systems from Lasit.
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LIVE EVENT: Join Sandvik Coromant on ‘How to productively machine aluminium components’
Join Sandvik Coromant on 15 June 2022 at 15:00 Central European Time for the live event. The changed economic circumstances, the onward march of new technologies and the necessity to reduce global carbon emissions require the automotive industry OEMs and their suppliers to adapt.
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Formex Industries pledges R102 million investment boost for auto component manufacturing
Company is gearing itself for new projects that are planned for Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) and the expected localisation drive from other automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Eastern Cape-based Formex Industries has announced a new R102 million investment in the region. This follows a localisation drive by Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) and potential work from other automotive OEMs. The latest contract will enable Formex to manufacture more than 20 new automotive components that were previously made in Portugal.
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Robotic Innovations develops mobile, all-inclusive cobot welding system equipped with a Fanuc CRX-10iA/L collaborative robot
“Traditional manual welding comes with many problems, which are mostly weld seam inconsistency and quality. However, using robotic welding the welded seams have consistent shapes and the seam width is stable, thanks to the excellent repeatability and motion control of robots. Moreover, automatic welding reduces the occurrence of porosity, making the welding seam more aesthetic,” said Rickard Oosthuizen, Operations Manager of Robotic Innovations.
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Year of the Cobot: Cobots make automating easier than ever
Collaborative robots (cobots) aren’t superheroes, but they are rescuing manufacturers of all sizes from the grip of a crippling labour shortage. Companies that once never considered robotic automation are now adopting cobots in their operations because today’s cobots are simple to operate and can handle a wide variety of previously impossible tasks.
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Industrial design: It’s all digital these days – no it is not!
“The misconception about an industrial designer or the profession itself continues to linger on despite the modern world that we live in and the access that we have to being informed. Personally I think the linking of the two words – industrial and design/designer – is a contributing factor to the misconception,” said Brian Steinhobel of Art Steinhobel.
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ONS Electrical and Engineering owner makes it happen after a layoff
Invests in DNE fibre laser. Looking to invest more in other metalworking equipment. Kenny Pillay did not need any motivation or pushing. At the age of 32 he had been retrenched after building up a decent resume in positions other than manufacturing, let alone metalworking. The closest he came was his last position where he was Manager of the spares department at an automotive OEM. Even with no dependants to worry about coupled with very little savings, he still needed to earn.
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Localisation Supermarket, in support of the South African Automotive Masterplan 2035, gives you opportunity to supply locally made components
The Localisation Supermarket, both a physical showcase and online catalogue of automotive components that are currently imported and for which Tier 1 suppliers are seeking local alternatives, is giving impetus to the South African Automotive Masterplan’s targets to transform the automotive supply chain.
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Rainbow SkyReach introduces laser cutting and bending to its aircraft manufacturing capabilities
Modern machinery has increased throughput in many metalworking and fabricating companies tremendously. I’ve visited some shops in which I see components move from one process to the next within minutes, as long as there is an organised production plan. In many operations, the once so dreaded machine changeover is now no big deal. The speed at which the machines cut or bend shifts the problem to address downstream issues.
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Multitrade 3D Systems appointed as Meltio’s official sales partner to boost growth in the Sub-Saharan Africa metal additive manufacturing market
Multitrade 3D Systems and Meltio, based in the Jaén province of southern Spain in the eastern part of the autonomous community of Andalusia, a disruptive laser metal deposition technology manufacturer have announced that Multitrade 3D Systems is going to play a key role in the distribution and support of the Meltio metal 3D printing solutions in the Sub-Saharan Africa market, as an official sales partner.
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Special Steels takes delivery of three Everising bandsaws and one billet saw
Special Steels’ sawing line is constantly being added to with new equipment and in 2021 two new machines were installed and now in 2022 a further three Everising bandsaws and one Everising billet saw have been added to this department. “With a growing order book, we identified the need to increase capacity, to cut quickly and shorten lead-times. This has always been the company’s philosophy,” said Byron Ferguson, MD of Special Steels.
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KPL Die Casting and Thekwini Wire thrive on VWSA mentoring and recognition
Despite the Covid-19 pandemic and the semi-conductor crisis impacting the automotive industry, the goal of transformation has remained a priority to Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA). This priority extends to the company and to its supply chain, with two new black-owned suppliers joining the VWSA supplier base after completing a mentoring programme offered by the company.
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WD Hearn Machine Tools golf day brings welcome diversion to stressful period
Participating in a company sponsored golf day used to be a regular outing for many. As we all know this welcome diversion from a busy work schedule came to a grinding halt just over two years ago. Slowly life is getting back to what we were accustomed to, for now anyway, but we still have to be cautious. In March WD Hearn Machine Tools Johannesburg branch revived their annual golf day, which had not taken place the previous three years.
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Does South African manufacturing have a problem?
“The makerspace idea originates from the USA. The concept is about lowering the barriers of entry for people to express their creativity in a physical way. It is about people getting together, working creatively, inspiring each other, engaging with new technology, and building a bottom-up economy, as the MakerSpace Foundation describes it,” explained Henry Levine, CEO at Made In Workshop.
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Air Products South Africa acquires Weldamax
The Competition Tribunal has conditionally approved the large merger wherein Air Products South Africa (Pty) Ltd (Air Products) intends to acquire Weldamax (Pty) Ltd (Weldamax). On implementation of the proposed merger, Air Products will have sole control over Weldamax. The Tribunal has approved the proposed transaction with conditions.
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It is not only the government that discourages foreign investment in South Africa with its red tape. Competition Commission recommends imposing conditions to sale of Consol Holdings
Headquartered in Johannesburg, and founded in 1946, Consol Holdings operates four glass production facilities. It serves international, regional and domestic customers, principally in the beer, wine, spirits, food and non-alcoholic beverage sectors. In the year to June 30, 2021, Consol reported consolidated revenues of ZAR9.0 billion ($566 million).
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Engineering company owners exasperated with government’s non willingness to see the light
“Slowly we keep the wheels of industry running between the few professionals and companies that are left in the fabrication and engineering space. Real companies with real passion for this industry. Companies with long-term views. It’s called building a civilisation. Please note that if you come to the few of us that are left, you will get a product that will run its lifecycle or more. We don’t take chances and we work to a proven code,” said Francois Coertzen, owner of Coertzen Engineering Consultants, recently in a LinkedIn post.
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EuroBLECH 2022 returns to live event format
The 26th edition of the International Sheet Metal Working Technology Exhibition, EuroBLECH 2022, will take place from 25 to 28 October 2022 in Hanover, Germany. Following the latest easing of Covid restrictions, show organiser Mack-Brooks Exhibitions has confirmed that the world’s largest trade event for sheet metal processing will go ahead as planned. Demand for stand space has surged, and the current exhibitor list stands at 1 257 companies from 39 nations.
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Fanuc reaches CNC production milestone of 5 million
Fanuc started the development of NC (numerical control) in 1955 and has unwaveringly devoted its business to factory automation. Since the start of production of the first NC in 1958, the accumulated production has increased steadily resulting in 10 000 units in 1974, 1 million units in 1998, 2 million units in 2007, 3 million units in 2013, 4 million units in 2018, culminating in a total of 5 million units in February, 2022.
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Tshwane Automotive SEZ: Construction of Phase 2 to start this year
The special economic zone has already attracted billions in investments by suppliers to Ford SA. Construction is anticipated to commence later this year on Phase 2 of the Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone (TASEZ), where automotive component suppliers to Ford South Africa have already invested billions in new facilities and equipment, writes Roy Cokayne on the Moneyweb website.
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Duferco calls for the DTIC to follow the data and rethink its approach to the South African steel industry
Duferco Steel Processing (Duferco) is calling for the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) to adopt a more far-sighted and even-handed approach that will benefit the South African steel industry as a whole. Ludovico Sanges, CEO of DSP, says that the DTIC’s approach to protecting the local flat steel industry unfairly benefits only certain sectors of a complex ecosystem.
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March 2022
Logical extension: Iscar has introduced NeologIQ
Several years ago, Iscar launched a unique and innovative LogIQ product line – a campaign that brought new families of cutting tools to the world market. These families were designed to address challenges in metalworking industries, from increasing productivity to finding cost-effective indexable alternatives to small-in-diameter solid carbide tools.
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Stillam adds Swiss-type machining CAM software to basket of software solutions
Stillam CNC Programming Solutions has announced that it has been appointed the Southern African distributor for Esprit CAM software, a product that was established in 1982 by DP Technology and is now in the Hexagon AB stable. Their clients are mom-and-pop machine shops, multinational aerospace corporations, and everyone in between, providing them with a highly adaptable CAM system.
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First Cut and Messer Cutting Systems strengthen ties
Three years ago First Cut, one of the leading distributors of international capital equipment and consumables in South Africa, announced that the company had signed a distribution agreement with Germany’s Messer Cutting Systems to market the company’s plasma, oxyfuel, and large-plate processing equipment.
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Strucmac invests in large Fermat twin table horizontal floor borer to handle large workpieces up to 40 ton
Adding capacity, capabilities, floor space. In the case of Strucmac, the company has built a job shop business based on flexibility and breadth. It’s a business designed to handle parts, sub-assemblies or complete products for its clients. The company offers a multitude of metalworking services and disciplines that makes it hard for a client to look elsewhere.
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J.A. Engineering completes manufacture and delivery of 12 JAE 20-C shuttle cars for an underground mining client
“We are very proud to announce the ground-breaking achievement that we have achieved. We closed off 2021 by supplying 12 JAE 20-C shuttle cars to a first-time customer. The customer included a penalty clause for late delivery, with a deadline for the first eight Shuttle Cars in just four months and the balance within six months,” Danie van Wyk, CEO at J.A. Engineering.
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Fritz Kosa decides to retire and sell Trimos-Sylvac
When Fritz Kosa established Trimos-Sylvac in 1990 as a family-owned business he was not thinking of his retirement. All he wanted to be is a happy and successful businessman that would service the industry sector that he had chosen to the best of his abilities. He started the company based on many years of experience in the field of metrology and dimensional measuring applications.
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Ford South Africa transforms manufacturing robot into a BBQ braai legend!
There’s a new braai (or barbeque) master at Ford South Africa’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, but just don’t expect a reply when you tell him how well you want your meat done! That’s because TCF BBQ – as it’s affectionately known – is a robot! What TCF BBQ (Braai Boerewors Quickly) lacks in communication, it more than makes up for in speed! Able to braai 120 pieces of meat in 12 minutes without breaking a sweat.
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Graeme Cooper appointed MD of WD Hearn Machine Tools
WD Hearn Machine Tools, one of the oldest and largest machine tool companies in South Africa, offering a wide agency portfolio that covers virtually all metalworking and metrology needs, have announced that Graeme Cooper, son of owner Ray Cooper, has been appointed Managing Director, taking over from his father who will now take up the position of Chairman of the group of companies under the umbrella of Drury Machine Tools and includes WD Hearn Machine Tools and Lead Machine Tools.
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Pferd looks to improve economic efficiency for clients with their products and training
Abrasives manufacturer Pferd South Africa expects South Africa’s manufacturing sector to increase the uptake of high-quality products and its training during 2022 as companies look to improve productivity and efficiencies to offset rising costs. Statistics South Africa reports that the basic iron, steel, non-ferrous metal products, metal products, and machinery division is experiencing an uptick in activity.
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Government targets cable thieves
South Africa’s government intends making it mandatory for all metal traders to get licenses and prevent them from dealing in cash, according to a Bloomberg report. The government intends making it mandatory for all metal traders to get licenses and prevent them from dealing in cash, a measure aimed at combating a massive illegal trade in cables and wiring stripped from rail, power and telecommunication lines.
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KLT manufactures 800 000th Ranger chassis
KLT Automotive and Tubular Products SA, the chassis and tubing manufacturer, has announced the production of the 800 000th Ford Ranger chassis at its Hammanskraal, northern Gauteng plant. KLT Group is a chassis and tubing manufacturer in India, with customers such as Tata, Mahindra, Daimler, Ashok Leyland and Volvo/Eicher and operates 11 plants. KLT Automotive SA, a subsidiary of KLT Group, currently employs more than 700 people.
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Major OEM vehicle manufacturers invested R8.8 billion in South Africa in 2021
A total of R8.8 billion was invested in South Africa by the major vehicle manufacturers in 2021, the second highest level on record after the record R9.23 billion invested in 2020, according to a report by Roy Cokane in Moneyweb. This was disclosed in the quarterly review of business conditions in the vehicle manufacturing industry and automotive sector for the fourth quarter of 2021, released by automotive business council Naamsa.
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Does the western world really care about us? Just a thought!
Tony Cimato, Chairman and CEO of the Efficient Engineering Group of Companies, posted this question on the LinkedIn social media platform recently. The responses from company owners and the like are posted below. “We as South Africans are all surprised that the western world was quick to lock us out of their borders because of the Omicron variant, even though there is evidence that this was in Europe weeks before our scientists discovered this variant.”
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Stewarts & Lloyds add aesthetics to steelwork for Nike SA sponsored sports centre in Soweto
With many challenges to find a solution for, the Stewarts & Lloyds’ Robertville, Gauteng team, the branch assigned the project, has been busy over the past two years with a huge project for Nike SA manufacturing and fabricating the roofing structure for the new Shapa Soweto Training Centre, a beautiful, functional and very impressive one-of-a-kind assembly.
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A feminine approach to fibre laser cutting
It is no secret that you don’t often find females hovering around a fibre laser or a press brake and being quite at home operating the machine. It is a little more prevalent when it comes to CNC lathe operators or in certain departments in a foundry, the laboratory or metallurgy departments, for example. In other words women are scarce in the ‘tough’ departments of manufacturing and for good reason, some may say.
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Protecting your assets – inside and outside – made easier
In today’s tech-driven world, it’s tempting to look for the one perfect, all-encompassing solution to your problems. After all, we live in times when cutting-edge technology is often worshipped as the one true faith of trouble-shooting, and many companies advertise their products as an all-in-one miracle elixir. However, the reality is that “silver bullet” solutions don’t exist, and this is especially true in the complex and ever-changing world of security systems.
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South Africa’s biggest steelmaker, ArcelorMittal, reports a bumper net profit
Extracts from the report produced by the JSE SENS Department said: “The Company’s annual results were supported by a continuing strong price environment, higher sales volumes, and the benefit of robust price-cost effects, all resulting in the highest yearly EBITDA (R8 569 million) and headline earnings (R6 860 million) since 2008.”
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Special Steels also offers robotic welding and laser cutting
“In recent years we have concentrated on adding value in all the right places and moved away from being just a specialist cut-to-length company of imported bar and tube company. Niche steel industry capabilities and focus allows our company to be the hybrid between a steel supplier that is able to add value to our products for the benefit of our clients,” said Byron Ferguson, MD of Special Steels.
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January 2022
From 3D scanning to 3D printing – B&R Metrology Solutions
“As additive manufacturing techniques and technologies continue to mature, more and more industry sectors, companies and design teams are realising the tremendous potential that 3D printers, used in conjunction with 3D scanners, have accelerated innovation, operational gains, supply chain resiliency and on-demand small-batch production,” said Bryn Labuschagne, Sales Director of B&R Metrology.
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Admo Engineering makes major investment in Hugong 12m by 4.5m 8kW fibre laser
“The machine might not be largest in terms of its cutting area for the length of the bed – that accolade went to a company named Laser Sprint way back in 2003 – but for the width of the cutting area it certainly is. The bed size of this monster Hugong CNC fibre laser cutter is slightly more than the 12 metres by 4.5 metres plate that Admo Engineering intend processing,” explained Thys de Villiers.
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Macsteel Service Centres SA opens Macsteel City
The company has begun a journey of pursuing reinvention. In 2019 Macsteel Service Centres SA (Pty) Ltd (MSCSA) embarked on a consolidation and reinvention programme set on becoming a centralised distribution-type business. The focus would be on how the company would move steel to customers as effectively and efficiently as possible.
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Wagner Systems – More than 50 years of fine mechanics components and assemblies’ production
Founded in 1965, the company provides specialist precision engineering services to customers in various industries worldwide. These include, amongst others, enterprises producing medical devices (dental implant systems, audiology/hearing aids, cardiovascular, ophthalmology and endoscopy) and laboratory equipment, aerospace, radioastronomy, the mechanical industry, and industry in general – even music instruments and model car builders!
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First Cut and Gas Safety International join forces
First Cut has announced that it has entered into a merger of interests with Gas Safety International (GSI), a Johannesburg-based company that has been providing certified training and supplying gas equipment to the industrial sector in South Africa since 1985. The agreement became effective from 01 November 2021 and will allow both companies to explore opportunities that are mutually beneficial to both.
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Pro-Tec Engineering wins production assembly line orders in the automotive industry
Following years in the automotive sector, Pro-Tec Engineering, together with their partner KDA were approached by Aeroklas Duys, South Africa to assist them in building a production assembly line for rear bumpers. The rear bumpers are for two leading global car manufacturers, Ford and Volkswagen, and they will be manufactured for the Ford Ranger and VW Amarok models respectively. These rear bumpers are for both the Ranger and Amarok will be assembled on one assembly line.
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Machine like a Pro Free webinar with Autodesk and Aztech
Design and engineer products to ensure aesthetics, form, fit, and function. Reduce the impact of design, engineering, and PCB changes and ensure manufacturability with simulation and generative design tools. Directly edit existing features or model fixtures with the only truly integrated CAD + CAM software tool.
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African Lazer Solutions finds success in its first year of business
Starting a business is difficult at the best of times but, starting one during the pandemic crisis that the world is currently in, is very brave. “We are delighted that we have successfully negotiated our first year in business and can reflect back on the year knowing that we have completed some very interesting installations and look forward to more in 2022 with the current order book that we have,” commented Chris van Aswegen of African Lazer Solutions.
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To meet demand, energy storage solutions company Freedom Won has invested in a new Durma CNC synchro press brake
Lithium battery technology supplier overcomes problem for battery enclosures with custom-built press brake. Fast growing energy storage solutions company Freedom Won has recently invested in a new Durma CNC synchro press brake that has been custom built for the company so that the company can fabricate its battery boxes and enclosures without taking extra stages in the bending process.
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Acoustex installs 250 ton Yangli hydraulic press to manufacture moulded carpets for the new Isuzu D-Max bakkie
Acoustex, a Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape manufacturer of vehicle trim components, has recently installed a new 250 ton Yangli to manufacture moulded carpets for the new Isuzu D-Max bakkie, which is due to be launched in 2022. The excitement at Acoustex’s plant began in mid-2021 with the floor preparation for the new production line. The dedicated line includes the Yangli frame type single moving sheet drawing hydraulic press that weighs in at 39 tons.
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MSC Technical Durban erects and installs ship propeller at new KwaZulu-Natal Cruise Terminal in Durban
MSC Technical Durban, one of three MSC Shipping facilities worldwide that were established by the company to offer repairs and services to the company’s ships, has recently completed a major project whereby it has erected and secured a ship’s propeller at the new KwaZulu-Natal Cruise Terminal, a passenger terminal in Durban harbour that will cater for the many expected tourists and cruise ships that are likely to visit Durban, once the pandemic has ceased.
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Ford invests R600 million in Struandale engine plant for new 3.0L V6 diesel engine and upgrades for 2.0L diesel
Ford Motor Company today announced an investment of R600 million in the Struandale Engine Plant in Port Elizabeth. This investment supports the launch of a new 3.0L V6 turbodiesel engine, as well as upgrades to the existing assembly line for the 2.0L Single Turbo and 2.0L Bi-Turbo diesel engines – all of which will be offered in the recently unveiled next-generation Ford Ranger pick-up, set for launch in 2022.
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Raising the bar at Special Steels: Celebrates 20 years in business
Adding value in all the right places: Niche steel industry capabilities and focus allows company to be the hybrid between steel supplier and value-adding producers. Value-added processing was not the focus of Specials Steels when it was established 20 years ago. The main emphasis of the company at the time was to be a specialist cut-to-length company of imported bar and tube company.
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NMU student creates unique configurable 3D printed golf putter
In June of 2020, having a competitive Eastern Province golfer, Wian van Aswegen, amongst its students and an established capability in advanced Additive Manufacturing (AM) design and manufacturing outputs, the Advanced Engineering and Design Group (AEDG) student team at the Nelson Mandela University (NMU) initiated a project to create a unique configurable golf putter that could appeal to the needs of many high-level golfers.
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Pegasus Steel introduces 15kW Bystronic ByStar 8025 fibre laser into its capabilities
The metal fabrication industry’s business case for high laser cutting power has evolved over the years. In the early years of CO2 laser cutting, more power let you cut faster and thicker. Especially for custom fabricators, a higher-powered laser broadened a shop’s capabilities, which in turn opened the door to new customers and markets. Then in the late 2000s came the fibre laser and a whole new ballgame.
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Mazak enters Swiss-type turning machine market with its new line of Syncrex machines
The extremely precise Syncrex models feature seven, eight and nine-axis configurations and are optimised for high-production of small parts. A Swiss CNC machine, also known as a Swiss type lathe or a Swiss automatic lathe, is a modern precision manufacturing machine that can produce extremely small parts quickly and accurately. Very small, slender or delicate components can be produced by Swiss machining in a production volume environment.
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JIMTOF 2022 to connect exhibitors, visitors and technology: The 31st Japan International Machine Tool Fair
The exhibition will be held at the Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Centre) from 8 November to 13 November 2022. As is customary the organisers of Japan’s machine tool exhibition JIMTOF link the exhibition to an appropriate theme in the engineering field. The theme for JIMTOF 2022 will be: Open the door to the future – Meet the technologies moving the world forward.
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From EMO Milano to EMO Hannover 2023
Scheduled to take place from 18 to 23 September 2023 in Hannover, Germany. For the first time in a long while, EMO Milano 2021 offered the metalworking industry the opportunity to meet face-to-face on an international stage, make new acquaintances and exchange ideas on a large scale. All of this makes one optimistic when it comes to the future of the trade show business and has everyone involved looking forward with confidence to the industry’s next highlights. One is undoubtedly EMO Hannover 2023, which relaunched in September 2021.
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Taiwan’s trade show Timtos x TMTS 2022 all set for February 2022
Timtos x TMTS 2022, Taiwan’s largest co-branded machine tool show, will be held at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre, from 21 to 26 February, 2022. Organisers are expecting a total of 900+ exhibitors to pack the exhibition halls with 5 200 booths. Notably, it will be not only the largest trade show in Taiwan since the outbreak of the pandemic, but one of the most significant events for the global machine tool industry in early 2022.
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Industry Events
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Job Market
Too many times we hear gripes of “I cannot find the right person”, or “I advertise in the local newspaper and my inbox is flooded with emails from the wrong applicants”, or “the recruitment agency does not understand my business and wastes my time with sending the wrong applicants”.
