Industrial Buyer March 2022

MARCH 2022

Industrial BUYER

www.industrialbuyer.co.za

The latest products, equipment and services for the general manufacturing and engineering sectors

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING WAREHOUSE FLOORING FIVE OF THE PACKAGING INDUSTRY’S TOP SELLING MACHINES

SUPPLY AND DEMAND HOW COVID CHANGED THE GAME IN LOGISTICS

Industrial BUYER

CONTENTS

MARCH 2022

www.industrialbuyer.co.za

INDUSTRIAL BUYER HAS GONE DIGITAL

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX............4 PRODUCT LISTINGS................5 ACCESS CONTROL..................6

View this magazine on your preferred device – mobile or desktop. Industrial Buyer is a guide to the manufacturing industry in southern Africa, with insightful trend articles, product news and a handy listing section on page 5. Visit our advertisers’ index on page 4 to refer to specific companies and products and refer to the contents on this page to find specific sections and articles.

PACKAGING...............................8 WAREHOUSING...................... 10 INDUSTRIAL FLOORING........12 TOOLS AND MACHINERY.... 14 PUMPS...................................... 16 PRINTING, CODING AND MARKING.................................. 18 SUPPLY CHAIN........................22 INDUSTRY INSIGHTS............25

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IndustrialBuyer

EDITOR

PUBLISHING TEAM

Varushka Padayachi Email: varushka.padayachi@newmedia.co.za

General Manager: Dev Naidoo Publishing Manager: Dev Naidoo Art Director: David Kyslinger Layout & Design: Kyle Martin

ADVERTISING Sales Executive: Aneta Silva Cell: +27 (0) 82 445 6086 Email: aneta.silva@newmedia.co.za

Register on www.B2BCentral.com Head Office: New Media, a division of Media24 (Pty) Ltd, 8th floor, Media24 Centre, 40 Heerengracht, Cape Town, 8001 Tel: 021 406 2002 www.industrialbuyer.co.za

Johannesburg Office: New Media, a division of Media24 (Pty) Ltd, Ground Floor, 272 Pretoria Avenue, Randburg, 2194

PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Mandy Ackerman Email: mandy.ackerman@newmedia.co.za

Published by New Media, a division of Media24 (PTY) Ltd.

CIRCULATION MANAGER

MANAGEMENT TEAM

Felicity Garbers Email: felicity.garbers@newmedia.co.za

CEO NEW MEDIA: Aileen Lamb Commercial Director: Maria Tiganis Brand Strategy Director: Andrew Nunneley Chief Financial Officer: Venette Malone CEO: Media24: Ishmet Davidson

Unless previously agreed in writing, Industrial Buyer owns all rights to all contributions, whether image or text.

SOURCES: Shutterstock, supplied images, editorial staff, advertisers.

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All rights reserved. © Industrial Buyer. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, photocopying, electronic, mechanical or otherwise without the prior written permission of the copyright owners. Readers are prohibited from using the contact details displayed in any advertisement or editorial within the pages of this publication to generate and/or distribute unsolicited bulk emails or other forms of mass marketing correspondence.

INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

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UP FRONT

MARCH 2022

BY VA RUSH KA PA DAYAC H I

ARE WE OUT OF THE WOODS YET?

I

had a conversation with someone recently where we came to the realisation that we’ve been on edge for two whole years.

COVID-19 took the world by surprise and you never really knew where you stood, regulations were constantly changing and we have all been anxious about the future.

This year, while COVID-19 regulations have recently been relaxed, there is even more to be worried about with the added concerns of vaccination policies, a rising petrol price and the one constant – loadshedding.

The logistics industry has been heavily affected by the pandemic and continues to be affected by current affairs.

According to Forbes. com we can expect R BUYE to see continued disruption in supply chain this year.

The industry is hyper aware of any changes considering GISTICS MANDE GAME IN LO DE D TH LY ANCHANGED SUPPCO VID HOW how quickly

outbreaks of COVID-19 can take place and the possibility of new variants developing is always looming.

If I could identify one stand out industry in these two years it must be the supply chain and logistics industry. In the midst of upheaval, this sector has risen to the occasion, becoming hyper agile and responsive to change.

According to Manufacturer. com this year the industry will have a renewed focus on sustainability through efficiency and optimisation.

The industry is also looking at more connected transportation networks and how to best utilise artificial intelligence.

In this month’s edition of

Industrial Buyer we focus on supply chain and logistics by looking at fully integrated coding on page 18.

On page 20 we find why vision based barcoding is replacing the traditional type.

We also find out why the Rocker Bin range from Ehrenberg Engineering has been a materials handling favourite for so many years on page 14.

Don’t forget to refer to our handy product listing guide on page 5 to quickly find contact details for the companies featured in this digital magazine.

I hope you enjoy the read.

If you have any feedback or queries please email me at varushka.padayachi@ newmedia.co.za.

a uyer.co.z ustrialb www.ind

trial Indus

2 H 202 MARC

nt equipme ducts, general st pro the The latevices for and and ser cturing tors manufa ring sec enginee

G CHOOSIN R WHEN NSIDE ING TO CO OR WHAT HOUSE FLO TRY’S WARE INDUS CKAGING PA S E TH INE FIVE OFLLING MACH TOP SE

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

“CHANGE IS INEVITABLE. GROWTH IS OPTIONAL” JOHN C. MAXWELL

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Air & Vacuum Technologies............................. 17 Buckle Packaging..................... 9 Ehrenberg Engineering.......... 15

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

Flow System Controls............. 7 Indufloor..................................... 13 Mitas Corporation................... 21 Pyrotec........................................19

Southern Storage Solutions t/a Dexion Storage Solutions..................................... 11 Telpro Management................2

LISTINGS ACCESS CONTROL

Systems One -

Flow Systems Control –

www.systems-one.com – 010 013 1971

www.flowsystems.co.za - 011 762-2453

PUMPS AUTOMATION

Air & Vacuum Technologies -

Systems One -

www.vactech.co.za - 011 318 3241

www.systems-one.com – 010 013 1971

CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT Ehrenberg Engineering www.ehrenberg.co.za - 011 493 6280

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT Air and Vacuum Technologies www.vactech.co.za - 011 318 3241

FLOORING Indufloor - www.indufloor.co.za - 011 466 2084

RACKS AND SHELVES Southern Storage Solutions t/a Dexion Storage Solutions www.dexionrackingandshelving.co.za - 021 552 0220

TOOLS AND MACHINERY Ehrenberg Engineering - www.ehrenberg.co.za - 011 493 6280

WAREHOUSING Indufloor - www.indufloor.co.za - 011 466 2084 Southern Storage Solutions t/a

LABELLING

Dexion Storage Solutions -

Pyrotec - www.pyrotec.co.za - 021 787 9600

www.dexionrackingandshelving.co.za - 021 552 0220

PACKAGING Buckle Packaging www.bucklepackaging.co.za - 011 613 8024

PRINTING, CODING AND MARKING Pyrotec - www.pyrotec.co.za - 021 787 9600 Telpro Management www.telpro.co.za - 011 875 9300

INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

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ACCESS CONTROL Looking back: Flow Systems designs SA’s first homegrown industrial turnstile Flow Systems was the first company in South Africa to design and manufacture a fully-South African industrial turnstile. The company did a strategic installation of access control turnstiles at Sasol’s Synfuel plant in 1994 that changed the game in access control at industrial plants.

T

he plant had previously utilised security cubicles. In the previous high-security era, where the possibility of sabotage was a priority, the cubicles were considered the best option. In present times this type of access control is now regarded as not being user-friendly and it was causing resentment amongst the staff.

system for the administration building, in a more prestigious style.

Each turnstile had two swipe-card readers, two infra-red beams and a process logic controller which was linked to the company’s network. This enabled traffic to be audited and salaries to the paid for the hours shown by the computer based on the audited traffic figures.

RELIABILITY AND EASY MAINTENANCE The Sasol Group appointed representatives from its technical, security and management teams to investigate replacing the existing access control system with the main criteria being: reliability, speed of transaction and easy maintenance. The group chose Flow Systems’ full-height turnstiles as the product met and exceeded the necessary requirements. While the security cubicles handled only one transaction at a time, the Flow Systems’ turnstiles handled three, with one entrance having to deal with 4 000 transactions in about three hours. This boosted efficiency.

USER-FRIENDLY Staff now perceived the turnstiles to be far more user-friendly. Two turnstiles were installed in 1994 on a trial basis and after

100% FROM DAY ONE

Flow Systems’ new turnstiles about a year, Sasol announced it was satisfied and installation of the turnstiles into major entrances began thereafter.

There were four major entrances to the Sasol Synfuel and a total of more than 80 turnstiles was required to cover them all. The south entrance being the largest was dealt with first and 24 turnstiles were installed before the east entrance which required 22 turnstiles, was tackled. New turnstiles were not only used for the industrial plant area but were also integrated into the access control

Hannes van Greuning of Sasol said: ‘We are extremely happy with Flow Systems’ products. We are not looking for the shortterm cheapest alternative as our main concern in long-term viability and Flow Systems’ turnstiles certainly provide this. Results so far have been marvellous with the increased traffic speed, and turnstile reliability making a major difference to efficiency.’

Considering the quantities ordered and time available Flow Systems’ production did remarkably well on this ground-breaking project. They kept promised dates, assisted with installation and all the turnstiles worked 100% from day one.

Flow Systems Manufacturers www.flowsystems.co.za

‘While the security cubicles handled only one transaction at a time, the Flow Systems’ turnstiles handled three, with one entrance having to deal with 4 000 transactions in about three hours. This boosted efficiency’ Turnstiles designed and manufactured by Flow Systems

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

INDUSTRIAL TURNSTILES PRESTIGE GLASS TURNSTILES

SPIKE BOOM BARRIERS

For a refined solution and peace of mind go with the Flow!

WAIST HEIGHT TURNSTILES AND GATES

Established in 1975 the Original South African Turnstile Manufacturer • Access control and Biometric Turnstiles • Touchless access control Speedgates • Access control and Automatic Revolving Doors • Access control booths and mantraps • Vehicle access control barriers • Alcohol Detection and Coin Operated Turnstiles • Industrial Sliding Gates

BOLLARDS

Tel: 011-762 2453 • Email: info@flowsystems.co.za • Website: www.flowsystems.co.za

PACKAGING

Five of the packaging industry’s top selling machines Buckle Packaging’s five top selling bag stitching machines and continuous heat sealers offer efficiency, speed and precision. Find out how they can assist in industries food manufacturing, fertiliser production, animal feed, agriculture and more.

1. MODEL SH1000 SAXON ‘Hot air’ sealer with conveyor – high speed heat sealing – stainless steel construction for the food industry.

2. MODEL MFS100 Fischbein stitcher with automatic power infeed and fold over device – in-line stitcher which fold the bag top over prior to the stitching process. The infeed and fold over perform a neat uniform fold each time achieving speeds that far exceed an operators’ capabilities.

3. MODEL ‘F’ Fischbein portable bag stitcher – hand held unit for lower production. Supplied either with or without a Safety spring balancer unit.

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4. MODEL EX720 HANATO Continuous BAND sealer with conveyor to suit. The HANATO offers a neat and secure 10mm thick seal across the top of the bag – supplied in a painted powder coated finish.

5. PREMIUM BAG CLOSING THREAD FOR THE STITCHING OF BAGS. This premium product is knotless and precision wound onto various cones sizes.

Available in six colours as well as white as standard.

Buckle Packaging www.bucklepackaging.co.za

Did you know?

Since 1979, Buckle Packaging has been offering the best-quality bag-closing equipment and sealing systems to its clients. Today it is Africa’s largest supplier of industrial bagstitching machines and heat-sealing systems, including the leading Fischbein and Saxon lines

Watch video here

Watch video here

Watch video here

Watch video here

INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

PACKAGING

BUCKLE PACKAGING | National Sales Contact: Anthony Mason | JHB Tel: 011 613 8024 | Fax: 011 613 1080 |

info@bucklepack.co.za | www.bucklepack.co.za

Number one bag closing specialists Since 1979 Buckle Packaging has supplied Africa with a range of end-of-line bag closing machines.

BAG STITCHING

BAND SEALERS

‘HOT AIR’ SEALING

Fischbein in-line industrial bag stitchers are the leaders in bag closing technology.

Heavy duty, robust, durable and reliable work horse.

Suitable for all bag types such as paper, woven polypropylene, BOPP, plastic and net.

The HANATO band sealer is suitable for various bag sizes. Ideal for sealing plastic bags filled with dry foods, grain, coffee etc. Seals pouches, foil securely with a 10mm seal.

The Saxon range of sealers are state of the art. Available in stainless steel for the food industry as well as fertilizer and chemicals.

No Teflon belts – uses the patented method of ‘hot air’ sealing with less maintenance and down time.

AUTO INFEED DEVICE The Fischbein infeed automatically guides the filled bag towards the stitcher. Allows for straight stitching and neat closures. Available for straight stitching or fold over prior to closing the bag.

Continuous Band Sealer

In-Line Heavy Duty Bag Stitcher

Auto Infeed Device With Fold Over

Saxon ‘Hot Air’ Heat Sealer

INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

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WAREHOUSING

Think smarter about storage With the head office based in Cape Town, Southern Storage Solutions-Dexion’s network provides support to customers nationally and into Africa.

W

ith over 55 years international experience in materials handling and storage systems, Dexion has the expertise required to solve any storage requirements.

COMPLETE RANGE Dexion offers a complete range of products, including all forms of racking, steel shelving, mobile shelving, conveyor systems, mezzanine floors, small parts bins, staff lockers and fencing as well as a complete advisory and system design service incorporating the latest CAD technology.

The company also offers a full racking inspection service which can be completed every six months, or where necessary on a more frequent basis. This includes a full audit on the storage system, a detailed report and recommendations on damage prevention.

Certification can be provided on request.

‘Dexion believes in thinking smart, being smarter in the way it works with its customers, smarter in the solutions it provides, and strategically smart to stay ahead of the competition’

World renowned The Dexion Brand is consistently known around the world for: • High quality products • Market-leading ideas surrounding concepts such as space utilisation and the effective storage and handling of items associated with a business • Excellence in customer service.

THINK SMART The brand is supported by training of its people, the latest design tools, active research and development, rigorous product testing and after-sales service.

Smarter thinking is embraced at all levels of the organisation. Dexion believes in thinking smart, being smarter in the way it works with its customers, smarter in the solutions it provides, and strategically smart to stay ahead of the competition.

Dexion www.dexionrackingandshelving.co.za

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

Did you know?

Dexion offers a complete range of products, including all forms of racking, steel shelving, mobile shelving, conveyor systems, mezzanine floors, small parts bins, staff lockers and fencing as well as a complete advisory and system design service incorporating the latest CAD technology.

Your Racking & Shelving Specialist The Dexion brand is known around the world for: High quality products, Market-leading ideas, Excellence in customer service and after-sales service. ‘Smarter Thinking’ – The Dexion Way

NEED A STORAGE SOLUTION?

TEL: 021 552 0220 EMAIL: ron@dexioncape.co.za ADDRESS: Southern Storage Solutions cc Cnr Koeberg Rd & Freedom Way Marconi Beam, Cape Town, 7441

Pallet Racking Cantilever Racking Shelving Mezzanine Floors Conveyors Mobile Racking Mobile Archive Shelving Small Parts Storage Staff Lockers

INDUSTRIAL FLOORING

Things to consider when choosing flooring for your warehouse Floors of warehouses need to be resistant to mechanical stress and easy to clean. They should also be long-lasting and cost-effective to maintain. Here are some factors to consider when choosing flooring for your warehouse.

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ESISTANCE TO ABRASION

Stability of industrial floors for your warehouse from abrasive wear is important.

Abrasion occurs during the movement of goods and equipment, traffic, equipment and people in the warehouse. Abrasion is one of the main reasons for the destruction of industrial floors in a warehouse. During work in the warehouse, there is always a risk of falling of various heavy items and equipment, containers and solid packaging elements. Increasing the toughness of the floor for the warehouse makes it possible to protect the floor from damage caused by impact loads. (Source: www.constrofacilitator. com)

RESISTANCE TO CHEMICALS Carbon dioxide corrosion of concrete is the main reason for the dusting of concrete floors.

Because of the use of machines and mechanisms, contamination of the floor of the warehouse with combustive-lubricating materials and products of engine operation occurs. Industrial floors for the warehouse are under the damaging effect of chemicals, various liquids and salts.

Therefore, the high chemical resistance of

the coating is the requirement to protect the concrete base.

COMPLIANCE WITH SAFETY STANDARDS Industrial floors for a warehouse must comply with Occupational Health and Safety regulations. The methods and quality of cleaning can improve the level of floor hygiene in warehouses. Warehouses in sectors such as the food manufacturing, pharmaceutical manufacturing and healthcare will also need

‘Abrasion is one of the main reasons for the destruction of industrial floors in a warehouse’ to factor in the strict hygiene demands that these sectors are held to. Seamless, impervious finishes are vital to maintaining a high standard of cleanliness.

AESTHETIC CONSIDERATIONS The appearance of the floor in a warehouse, its design and colour solution, the need to mark up or logo are also important to consider.

Access to global technology ensures that Indufloor’s materials, formulated from specialised polymeric resins and fillers can be applied in commercial and industrial projects; from beverage manufacturers, supermarkets, hospitals and food processing areas, to factory machine shops and chemical plants, workshops and aircraft hangers, protecting concrete from chemicals, temperature and abrasion.

Indufloor www.indufloor.co.za

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

INDUSTRIAL FLOORING

INDUFLOOR | National and International Sales | Tel: 082 490 3057 (Mike) | JHB Tel: 011 466 2084/8 |

info@indufloor.co.za | www.indufloor.co.za

The first choice in industrial flooring

B-BBEE LEVEL 2 QSE

Indufloor has 27 years’ top quality projects experience and is South Africa’s premier industrial flooring contractor. Indufloor will prepare the appropriate flooring specification and provide specialised installation teams to undertake work in accordance with the client’s requirement.

In determining the specification for the floor lining system, the clients assess a range of available options.

When abrasion- and chemical-resistance, ease of cleaning and aesthetic appearance are foremost considerations, Indufloor offers the right solution. Indufloor is contracted to do the work on a fast track basis, using its Blastrac, dust-free surface preparation machines prior to application of the chosen flooring system.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES • Polyurethane, epoxy, chemical concrete screeds • Abrasion-corrosion-resistant linings • Structural concrete floor repairs • Shut-down contracts • Blastrac dust-free concrete surface-preparation equipment, including shot blasting, milling, scarifying, dry grinding, scraping, cutting

• Superflat pump-applied floors • Decorative commercial flooring

MEETS ALL DEMANDS • • • • • • •

High performance, cost-effective Quick installation time No maintenance Hygienic, resistant to bacterial growth Quality assurance Local and International project history 25 years’ quality referral projects

INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

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TOOLS AND MACHINERY

Rocker Bin remains a firm favourite of the manufacturing industry Ehrenberg Engineering, manufacturers of specialised materials handling equipment, have over many years steadily built up a reputation for supplying the food and beverage, mining, agriculture and manufacturing industries with Rocker Bins.

T

he Rocker Bin range, designed for the fast and efficient handling of a wide range of materials, are well balanced, whether empty or loaded and the forklift’s forks slide easily yet securely into the “shoes” of the bins.

FAST AND EFFICIENT OFFLOADING Their unique tipping ability, brought about by the disengagement of the locking mechanism, followed by the tilting of the fork-hoist, allows for fast, efficient dumping or offloading. The emptied bin rocks back into its original position by the backward tilt of the fork-hoist and is automatically locked. The forklift driver, therefore, does not need to leave his seat during the entire operation which saves time and effort.

Rocker Bins are available in various sizes

ROBUST BINS These robust bins are available in various sizes and may also be fitted with lids and with wheels and castors for easy manoeuvrability.

There are also a multitude of other accessories and adaptations for the endless number of applications, which range from handling of steel offcuts, manufactured components and factory waste, to fruit, foodstuff and liquids.

They can be manufactured in mild steel, stainless steel, galvanised, rubberised or coated to custom application and specification.

The Scoop Bin

MEET THE ‘ROCKER FAMILY’ Other variants of the ‘Rocker Family’ are the Rocker Barrow, suited for manual bulk handling, the Rocker Pallet designed for bales and bulky materials, the Scoop Bin and the Rocker Tip Trailer for fast efficient transportation with any suitable tow vehicle.

Ehrenberg Engineering www.ehrenberg.co.za

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

Ehrenberg Engineering’s popular Rocker Bin

TOOLS AND MACHINERY

EHRENBERG ENGINEERING | Contact: Inge Glaner | JHB Tel: 011 493 6280 | Fax: 011 493 1677 | sales@ehrenberg.co.za

The family of hard rockers Ehrenberg Engineering presents its specialised ‘Rocker Family’, a range of products designed to save you time and effort in materials handling, whether you’re in the manufacturing, beverage, canning, building, transport or agricultural business.

The Rocker Bin, Rocker Barrow, Rocker Pallet — and the newly introduced Rocker Tip Trailer — are manufactured locally by Ehrenberg Engineering to ensure workers enjoy maximum comfort, safety and flexibility in their working environments. Needing no hydraulic attachments, each variant has its own unique ability enabling it to handle a wide variety of materials.

The Rocker Bin, with its steady tipping ability (brought about by disengaging the locking mechanism), allows you to dump or unload fast and efficiently. Easily manoeuvrable, forks can slide securely into the ‘shoes’ of the bins, whether empty or loaded. Once emptied, the bin rocks back into its original position by the backward tilt of the fork hoist and is then automatically locked. The forklift driver therefore does not need to leave his seat, thus saving time and effort.

The Rocker Bar row, suited to manual bulk handling, has uses ranging from agricultural to industrial.

Twice the size of a standard barrow, it is still perfectly balanced and easy to wheel. The simple foot release allows the operator to tip without effort.

The Rocker Tip Trailer is designed for the fast and efficient transportation ofgoods.

A load of 1.4 cubic meters can be off-loaded by one person in seconds. Any suitable tow vehicle can be used.

These bins come in various sizes with different accessories and attachments. The Turbo Rocker bin, for example, comes with an airtight lid and turbo industrial vacuum cleaner, giving it numerous cleaning and pneumatic filling applications.

Available in 6 sizes

INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

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PUMPS AND FANS

How to choose the right positive displacement blower Colder temperatures and often frozen soil led many Canadian contractors to adopt hydroexcavation as a way to daylight, pothole and dig trenches. It’s become a common practice to use high-pressure water and vacuum to remove the debris while digging in Canada, especially in the oil and gas industries.

W

HY IS HYDROEXCAVATION BETTER?

Hydro-excavation has gained prominence in the United States for several reasons: • It offers time savings over traditional methods such as using back hoes or even more laborious methods such as shovels.

• Less labour means cost savings.

• It’s safer since workers perform the process on the surface rather than entering any trench or hole.

• Operated properly, hydro-excavation won’t damage underground lines for utilities, water, sewer and more.

• It’s more environmentally friendly, disturbing only the soil or area necessary to do a variety of tasks.

• And it’s less noisy than air excavation.

There are options to get the job done with either a trailer-mounted or truck system, each with advantages depending on the application and worksite. Trailers can be moved and unattached to be left on the job site but aren’t as easy to move around from one place to the next. Trucks are mobile, generally hold more powerful vacuum and other equipment, as well as larger water and disposal tanks.

THREE TECHNOLOGIES THAT COVER A VARIETY OF APPLICATIONS Robuschi’s line of positive displacement blowers offer three technologies to cover a variety of applications: low, moderate and heavy vacuum. The primary difference, though, in the Robuschi technology is how each blower in its line cools itself to avoid overheating, a serious problem that can shut down a

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

hydro- excavation job. Many applications do not require digging deep, perhaps just using hydro-excavation to uncover utility lines, bury a cable, fibreoptics or ethernet line, or for shallow trenching. This shallow work doesn’t require as much vacuum to withdraw the debris into a holding tank. The standard workhorse for low vacuum and volume is the Sutorbilt Legend, which works well on trailer mounted units. It features a bi-lobe profile and comes in several configurations, including horizontal or vertical installations.

The blower’s cooler operating temperature extends blower life. This is extremely important in reliably handling continuous loads. The Sutorbilt Legend provides vacuum up to 15 in HG and with airflow up to 950 cfm.

Robuschi’s RB-DV blower

Watch video here

Robuschi’s RB-DV blower installed on a truck

RB-DV FOR DEEP VACUUM As American contractors, utilities, municipalities and more dig deeper and pull heavier substrate, they need a workhorse. Robuschi’s RB-DV blower offers best in class performance for deep vacuum. It’s typically mounted on hydroexcavation trucks that provide versatility to accomplish nearly any job. The RB-DV series allows for a variety of applications and certainly works well when deeper vacuum becomes necessary. Air & Vacuum Technologies are a direct importer and distributor of the full range of Robuschi products and services throughout Africa.

Air & Vacuum Technologies www.vactech.co.za

Stock Item

PUMPS • BLOWERS & COMPRESSORS

InstruAIR (a division of Air & Vacuum Technologies (Pty) Ltd.) is an official distributor for Robuschi oil free, low pressure Roots compressors and exhausters – made in Italy.

A&VT = ADDING VALUE TOGETHER

info@vactech.co.za

011 318 3241/2/3/4

www.vactech.co.za

PRINTING, CODING & MARKING

How to increase line visibility and improve efficiency Pyrotec has long been known for its innovative ability to keep abreast of global trends, including the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).

P

ackLink, the company’s customised software that provides a fully-integrated coding and labelling tracking system, assists customers to increase line visibility while improving efficiency by tracking waste, labour, and resources, and limiting downtime by enabling critical decisions to be made on the fly.

Because Pyrotec PackLink’s software is customised and developed in-house by Pyrotec, customers can build onto the system as and when budgets allow or business requirements dictate.

Watch video here

PYROTEC PACKLINK WORKS IN FOUR EASY STEPS: • Identify: Link to a database or ERP to automatically retrieve product data and capture barcodes or dates.

• Verify: Replace manual data entry with secured data entry and make decisions based on a set of rules.

• Track and trace: A unique product code allows presence verification through every step of the process.

• Overall equipment efficiency

Also available from Pyrotec is the CoLOS suite of software from Markem-Imaje. CoLOS allows manufacturers to integrate equipment networks throughout the production line into one central system. By standardising data

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

input, human error is reduced. This saves time, improves production flow, and drastically reduces long-term costs.

SOFTWARE POSSIBILITIES CoLOS consists of several software possibilities that meet every end-of-line production requirement.

These include options for packaging coding, message design, the management of complex labels and codes, and the ability to operate multiple printers from one platform. What’s more, CoLOS provides real-time data about production processes by linking production plans to individual printers on a line. It also monitors the productivity and efficiency of each machine, and automates the selection

of data for printing, reducing the need for human intervention. In turn, this reduces the risk of operator errors and provides accurate performance reports.

CONNECTING WITH CUSTOMERS Pyrotec understands that its customers need to stay ahead of the technology curve to be competitive in terms of speed and volume.

To do this, it offers the most cutting-edge machinery, software and on-pack devices available internationally to ensure its solutions provide the best return on investment now and into the future.

Pyrotec www.pyrotec.co.za

Entry-Level Self-Adhesive Labeller: ELDH Pyrotec PackMark supplies Manual and Semi-Auto Labellers for even the smallest manufacturer at an affordable price.

Electrical Benefits:

Power: 360 W | Frequency: 50Hz | Current: 1,5 A Voltage: 240 V | Phase: Single

Mechanical Benefits: • • • •

Dimensions: 500mm(w) X 700mm(l) X 320mm(h) Approx Weight (excl bracket): 6,7 kg Diameter of reel of labels: 220mm Labelling speed: Up to 35 labels per minute

Get in touch with us:

+27 21 787 9600 | packmark@pyrotec.co.za | www.pyrotec.co.za Information Officer: Rowan Beattie (MD) | Tel: +27 21 787 9600 | Physical Address: Lakeshore Road, Capricorn Park, Muizenberg, 7945 | Postal Address: Private Bag X1, Capricorn Square, 7948 | Email: RBeattie@pyrotec.co.za

PRINTING, CODING & MARKING

How to improve traceability while decreasing operational costs during the inbound process Vision-based barcode reading is replacing traditional laser scanners in an ever-increasing range of applications in the logistics industry; the DataMan 280 series, available from Systems One, offers fast decoding, easy setup, and valuable Industry 4.0 features.

I

n the race to respond to accelerated demand from customers to meet shorter and shorter delivery windows, retail distributors, fulfilment, and parcel processing organisations need to implement traceability solutions within their logistics operations to help meet delivery expectation goals. This is accomplished by more effectively managing inventory, capturing the necessary information to know where a package is at any time, and controlling loss. This starts at the inbound dock door: verifying what is supposed to be on the incoming truck is really on the truck. Scanning packages as they enter the truck creates an opportunity to find issues faster, reduce problems later, and manage expectations with the store or end customer.

PERFORMANCE METRICS In many cases, organisations have no traceability at the receiving door, or the process is a manual check-off from a printed list. In other situations, handheld laser scanners are used to scan incoming items. However, inaccuracies and inefficiencies can occur in both cases, leading to lost money, poor inventory control, and the inability to trace a problem to its source. Machine vision and barcode reading solutions help improve overall productivity by

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DATAMAN 280

DataMan 280 series

DataMan 280 was engineered to track and trace items throughout logistics supply chains improving traceability, increasing and reducing costs. In addition, those companies that fully leverage performance data and trending information from these solutions can more fully optimise their operations and maximise their investments. Even with traceability methods in place, codes on boxes are occasionally misread or not read at all.

Vision-based barcode reading is replacing traditional laser scanners in an ever-increasing range of applications in the logistics industry; the DataMan 280 series fixed-mount barcode readers offer fast decoding, easy setup, and valuable Industry 4.0 features, like web browser connectivity and performance monitoring, in a small form factor.

DataMan 280 was engineered to track and trace items throughout logistics supply chains solving a broad range of tough 1D, 2D, and direct part mark (DPM) code applications.

DataMan 280 series was designed to be flexible. The modular hardware and software can be configured to solve any barcode reading challenge.

Easily decode difficult DPM codes on challenging automotive and medical device surfaces. Read multiple label-based barcodes simultaneously on boxes and pallets, even behind specular wraps. And accurately read user presented codes with a large depth of focus for speedy handling.

BENEFITS OF BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY IN SUPPLY CHAIN TRACEABILITY Blockchain is a technology that enables a secure, synchronised, decentralised, and distributed record of digital transactions, without the need for third-party mediation.

On the basis that this technology fulfils the function of recording, preserving, and protecting the information of all types of digital operation, many sectors have shown great interest in incorporating this technology into their industrial operations. This is the case for supply chains, namely the set of activities, facilities and services required for the sale of products.

Systems One www.systems-one.com

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

Improve traceability, reduce manual handling, and lower operational costs during the inbound process.

In the race to respond to accelerated demand from customers to meet shorter and shorter delivery windows, retail distributors, fulfilment, and parcel processing organisations need to implement traceability solutions within their logistics operations to help meet delivery expectation goals.

• • • •

Solve tough logistics applications The latest technology improves code handling and coverage Advanced features enable easy setup and performance monitoring Benefits of blockchain technology in supply chain traceability

Contact MITAS today to discuss how our solutions can benefit your business! +27 10 020 7220

www.mitascorp.co.za

SUPPLY CHAIN

Managing you channel in the

The COVID-19 pandemic has taught the world many things, not least of which is the fact that many of our processes and regular business practices are inefficient and can benefit significantly from digital transformation. Andrew Dawson, MD of MACmobile, advises how you can manage (not micromanage) your distribution channel in the ‘new normal’.

T

he distribution channel can really benefit from digital solutions. They have the power to not only empower the sales force, but the entire channel workforce, including promotions and service teams. The key is to have a solution in place that enables effective management and tracking, without micromanagement, giving the workforce the tools they need to be productive in this new world environment.

EMPOWERING THE SALES FORCE One of the challenges around COVID-19 has been the need to allow workforces, such

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

‘With the right tools in place, all areas of the workforce within the distribution channel will be able to do their jobs more effectively’

as sales teams, the power to work more autonomously, rather than the traditional clock in, clock out system we have all become used to. With these teams operating in a more remote capacity, management needs to adapt. Rather than clock-watching or micromanagement, sales teams need the tools to be able to prove their activity, which can easily be enabled via digital channels.

Digital solutions also remove the need for paperwork. This not only supports COVID-19 hygiene protocols, but it also improves efficiency, since data is captured at source instead of paper-based forms needing to be logged digitally at a later stage.

SUPPLY CHAIN

ur distribution e ‘New Normal’

Beyond the sales team, the same solutions can be used to manage service teams, merchandisers and even promotions, giving enhanced line of sight into areas that have previously lacked visibility.

With the right tools in place, all areas of the workforce within the distribution channel will be able to do their jobs more effectively.

In addition, distributors will be able to monitor these areas in a way that simply was not previously possible. The added benefit of this, is the fact that, with digital processes in place, there is now performance data available for analysis, which can in turn be used to drive insight for further improvement down the line.

HARNESSING THE POWER OF DATA With all areas of the supply and distribution

chain driven online, there is now significantly enhanced line of sight in all areas, from manufacturing to retail, sales to merchandising. Even the promotions area, which has traditionally been challenging to manage effectively, can be enhanced via digital channels to better monitor and determine Return on Investment (ROI).

Armed with this data, manufacturers, distributors and retailers will be able to make use of intelligent dashboards to interpret data against key performance indicators and deliver real-time actionable insight.

Structured reports can be pulled at any time, and automatic alerts can be configured if any exceptions occur. This enables real-time business management, rather than the reactive approach that was the norm in the past.

Digital transformation of the supply chain and distribution channel will also enable data to be utilised for predictive analytics, enabling more agile and effective decision-making across the board.

Ultimately, this will drive insight and optimise efficiency.

The world has forever been changed by COVID-19, and the retail and distribution chain needs to adapt. The end goal, in this ‘new normal’, is a technology solution that will enable distributors to manage the entire workforce, from merchandisers to service teams to promoters, without micromanaging them.

Read more stories like this on www.b2bcentral.co.za INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

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SUPPLY CHAIN

Poor building material supply chains are main barrier to achieving net zero

A new report, ‘Sustainable by design’, by engineering consultancy Patrick Parsons, based on research with 100 senior executives of UK construction firms, reveals that despite the majority (85%) believing the industry is doing enough to reach net zero by 2050, there are significant barriers to achieving this target.

O

ver two thirds (68%) of respondents said that improvements to building material supply chains to reduce carbon would be critical to achieving net zero, followed by 63% who said that existing planning regulations need to change to support the sector if it is to hit this target.

Using alternative materials which have a lower carbon footprint is also a significant barrier to overcome for 62% of those questioned, followed by decarbonising existing buildings (59%) and the ability to collect data to measure carbon in buildings (48%).

When asked about the impact of the focus on climate change because of COP26, 86% said that they believe it will accelerate positive advances in sustainability in the sector during 2022.

AMBITION NOT WITHOUT ITS CHALLENGES Commenting on the findings of the report,

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INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

Conor Murphy, senior partner, Structural Engineering at Patrick Parsons says: “The UK construction industry is committed to reaching net zero by 2050 and is confident that this target will be met. However, this ambition is not without its challenges in terms of the materials used, the need for planning rules to change and the ability to decarbonise legacy buildings to improve their performance. Greater use of sustainable design and engineering in the planning of new developments, will support the pathway to net zero.”

Patrick Parsons focusses on helping clients assess, design, and overcome the most complex of engineering challenges across a range of sectors. Operating from four sites – its HQ in Birmingham, London, Wakefield and Ashvale - the business provides a range of connected engineering services including Structural, Civil and Geo-Environmental consulting engineering services, competences the firm has developed over many years, and for which it has built a strong reputation.

Did you know?

68% of respondents to a survey conducted by engineering consultancy Patrick Parsons said that improvements to building material supply chains to reduce carbon would be critical to achieving net zero

Access the full report at www.b2bcentral.co.za

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

VIDEO: How the new minimum wage could affect your business On 1 March the minimum wage in South Africa increased from R21.69 to R23.19 for each ordinary hour worked.

Industrial Buyer caught up with PPO general sales manager, Tennille Bell, and MD of PPO, Willie Du Preez to find out how this will affect the manufacturing and distribution sectors and what can be done to increase productivity and mitigate the risk of lower profits and possible retrenchments.

In the interview we discussed: • The impact of the new minimum wage on the manufacturing and warehousing industries.

• How this can impact the overall financial health of the organisation.

• The typical options available such as retrenchments, downscaling etc.

• How Business Process Outsourcing can boost productivity with an explanation of how it is output based.

Read more on www.b2bcentral.co.za PPO www.pposa.co.za

Watch video here

INDUSTRIAL BUYER MARCH 2022

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