STAINLESS STEEL SECTOR FIGHTS FOR THE RIGHT TO SUPPLY PARASTATAL PROJECTS
Sassda recently received excellent media exposure when it released information on its stance on the procurement of stainless steel or lack thereof in major government projects. What follows is the official news release that was distributed to the media ...
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 one to cement the correct specifications of South African stainless steel components in key strategic projects.
This is the view of the Southern Africa 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.
Sassda Executive Director Michel Basson stated; “We firmly believe that increased local conversion of stainless steel is not just essential; it’s a game-changer for our industry and the national economy. These projects are our industry’s stepping stones to fostering local demand and boosting the stainless steel sector”.
Eskom transmission towers
Based on the need for local components in government projects, a key focus of the SMP Local Demand structures has been on applying strong pressure on Eskom to engage more openly regarding the supply of transmission towers. The criteria for allowing local industry to participate in the
supply of these items and/or its components and have firm targets for local content is still debated.
However, in the interim Sassda has seen an opportunity to submit a change in the material specifications to allow for the use of South African 3CR12 stainless steel which is widely used across the globe in corrosive applications as a cost-effective alternative. This submission by Sassda - and its key members - based on Life Cycle Costing principles was received favourably by the committee but still needs to be accepted by Eskom.
Bailey bridges
Another government project with good potential for the use of stainless steel is the proposed construction of Bailey Bridges in rural areas. These are used in emergencies or as temporary structures for planned events. They are particularly useful in rural areas in the event of natural disasters like floods.
“During the consultation process with government departments, we once again used the opportunity to submit that 3CR12 stainless steel should be used in corrosive environments to ensure the optimum lifespan of the installations. The submission was received in a positive light and will be taken forward,” reported Basson.
Hollowware
Sassda’s research also shows that more than 10 000 tons of finished holloware products e.g., pots, pans, cutlery etc., are imported to South Africa annually. This is in stark contrast to the early 2000s when the local hollowware sector efficiently met 80% of domestic demand. By 2008, this figure plummeted to less than 50% and today it stands at a mere 10%.
Basson reported; “The Steel Master Plan still sees value in resurrecting the industry and, as such, Sassda has started to research and update the information on local demand and local capacity. By determining and potentially addressing the gap, a sizable local demand can be created for stainless steel holloware products in South Africa with job creation attached to this growth. “
Automotive
While investigations are ongoing to ensure the maximum volumes of stainless steel used in the local manufacturing of vehicles, there might also be room for creating more capacity for stainless steel products.
Basson explained; “A major challenge hindering cost effective production in the hollowware and cutlery industry is the demand for highly efficient automated processes. Fortunately, we see an opportunity for collaboration with the automotive industry, which boasts advanced technology and automation capabilities that can help us overcome this hurdle and revitalise our sector.” trends such as electric vehicles, these presses are sometimes
idle.
Notably, certain legacy companies in the automotive sector possess large presses which were historically dedicated to automotive production. However, as the automotive industry diversifies in response to emerging Together with NAAMSA, we’re exploring opportunities to leverage this spare capacity to produce semi-finished holloware components. This strategic alliance aims to empower the hollowware industry by providing access
to advanced technology and diversifying production capabilities,” said Basson.
Beer Kegs
There has also been a commitment from the formal brewing industry in South Africa for the procurement and use of locally-made beer kegs within the context of competitive pricing and quality. The Department of Labour has accepted a local standard for beer kegs. This standard is based on the German equivalent and stipulates stainless steel as a suitable material for the application. The grade used in the food and beverage industry, including beer kegs, is Grade 304 stainless steel.
A Western Cape based component manufacturer, Fabrinox, was identified by Sassda and the PtSA as a potential pilot producer. It is exciting to note that the required technology will be locally developed, built, and tested. The local material producer will form part of the project once the production process and manufacturing design are finalised to ensure that the material grades used can conform to the mechanical and other properties required by the manufacturing design.
Basson reported that the grouping of stakeholders is currently conducting a technology audit and capacity overview. and are also discussing the ownership and future use of the IP to be developed during the project. This process aims to create world-leading technology and is committing to a continuous development process of the project lifecycle.
Looking ahead Basson stated; “Overall, the potential for stainless steel in these projects is immense. Resurrecting and building these strategic stainless steel industries can lead to substantial demand and create accompanying job opportunities and economic growth.”