SA Mechanical Engineer July/August 2020

S MECHANICAL A ENGINEER Jul/Aug 2020

Publication of the SA Institution of Mechanical Engineering, incorporating News of Associate Organisations

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THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

S MECHANICAL A ENGINEER Jul/Aug 2020

Publication of the SA Institution of Mechanical Engineering, incorporating News of Associate Organisations

S MECHANICAL A ENGINEER Jul/Aug 2020 VOLUME 70

Contents

KSB Pumps and Valves Annett Kriel, Tel: (011) 876-5600 Email: Annett.Kriel@ksb.com www.ksbpumps.co.za

Tribology

Refrigeration

7 “Lubication Engineering” by the

South African Institute of Tribology

24 Outsourced Energy Solutions:

Cooling as a Service

Cover Story

26 The Balance Between Engineering

Passion and Professionalism

8 Finding Wastewater Solutions for Africa

Experiental Learning

Automotive

Boilers and Cooling Towers

12 Insurance and Electric Vehicles

10 Water Softener Maintenance

Regulars

Solar 11 Commercial and Industrial Systems

5

An Engineer’s View

6

Institution News

Energy Efficiency

30 Market Forum

13 Drive Engineered Packaged Solutions

38 On the Move

Chemical Disinfectant 14 Ozone- A Highly Effective Alternative

Power Transmission 16 A First: Efficent Drive Belts 19 Boosting Generator Life

Engineering Twins 22 Combining Music and Motorsport

Copyright

All rights reserved. No editorial matter published in “SA Mechanical Engineer” may be reproduced in any form or language without written permission of the publishers. While every effort is made to ensure accurate reproduction, the editor, authors, publishers and their employees or agents shall not be responsible or in any way liable for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies in the publication, whether arising from negligence or otherwise or for any consequences arising therefrom. The inclusion or exclusion of any product does not mean that the publisher or editorial board advocates or rejects its use either generally or in any particular field or fields.

Produced by: PROMECH PUBLISHING, P O Box 373, Pinegowrie, 2123, Republic of South Africa Tel: (011) 781-1401, Fax: (011) 781-1403 Email: samecheng@promech.co.za, www.promech.co.za Managing Editor Susan Custers Editorial Contributors

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Disclaimer

PROMECH Publishing and The South African Institution of Mechanical Engineering as well as any other body do not take responsibility for the opinions expressed by individuals.

Printed by: Typo Colour Printing, Tel: (011) 402-3468/9 FSC (Forestry Stewardship Accreditation)

Official Publication of

THE SA INSTITUTION OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING and endorsed by:

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CONSULTING ENGINEERS OF SA CORROSION INSTITUTE OF SA INSTITUTE FOR CERTIFICATED MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS NATIONAL SOCIETY OF BLACK ENGINEERS NUCLEAR INSTITUTE SA ASSOCIATION FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY SA CAPITAL EQUIPMENT EXPORT COUNCIL SA INSTITUTE FOR NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING SA INSTITUTE OF TRIBOLOGY SA PLASTIC PIPE MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION SA PUMP MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION SA VALVE AND ACTUATORS MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION VALVE & ACTUATOR MANUFACTURERS CLUSTER OF South Africa

THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

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THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

AN ENGINEER’S VIEW

The Cidb Regulations and Project and Construction Management Steve Hrabar

M

any of our members have approached SAIMechE as to the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) regulations regarding the Practice Note of registration with the South African Council Project and Construction Management Professions (SACPCMP) as Project Managers and/or Construction Managers for tenders and contracts that Industry and State Owned Enterprises (SOE’S) have issued. SAIMechE in turn made representation to the Council of the Built Environment (CBE) to clarify this guideline and to seek their opinion about this issue as both ECSA and SACPCMP reported to the CBE. As a result CBE hosted a meeting between CBE, CIDB and SAIMechE to examine and clarify the interpretation of the CIDB Practice Note.

The role of the CIDB is to facilitate and promote the improved contribution of the construction industry to South Arica’s economy and society.

Industrial companies can follow their own procedures determining their own requirements of Project Management and Construction Management for their projects

The intent of removing the registration requirement for qualified persons is to move to a requirement for clients to determine and specify the specific technical resource requirements on projects, based on the scope of work, complexity and size of the project. This Practice Note provides guidelines to clients to specify eligibility requirements for registered professionals to undertake the management of the construction works contract.

CIDB was formed by Government and Industry to regulate the construction industry for Government Tenders and Contracts (Including SOE’s) and to have a process of eligibility for the work, tendering, contract award and quality of workmanship. It is established in terms of the CIDB Act 38, of 2000.

At our meeting, CIDB presented Practice Note #31 dated the February 2014 where they clarified their interpretations of the need for registering of Project Managers and Construction managers to fulfil their mandate. The relevant extracted section of Practice Note #31 is shown below:

1.Background

The July 2013 CIDB Regulation Amendments (gazette No. 36629 of 2 July 2013) removed the requirement for “qualified persons” (or registered professionals) as a contractor registration requirement (Regulation 12(4) and Tables 4A and 4B).

2.Construction Management

In terms of the relevant Acts, SACPCMP and ECSA register professional persons who are competent to undertake such work – including construction management. The recognised professional persons

South African Council for Project and Construction Management Professionals (SAPCMP) Professional Construction Manager

Pr CM

Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) Professional Engineer

Pr Eng

Professional Engineering Technologist

Pr Tech Eng

Professional Certificated Engineer

Pr Cert Eng

Professional Engineering Technician

Pr Techni Eng

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AN ENGINEER’S VIEW

that are competent to undertake construction management are denoted as:

registered professionals can only undertake work for which they are competent to perform.

Within the ECSA system, the level of complexity, or “characteristics of engineering practice” that can be undertaken by the Professional Engineer, Engineering Technologist, Certificated Engineer or Engineering Technician is covered in ECSA Regulations. The ECSA Code of Conduct also requires that

It is further noted that in terms of the draft regulations for the “Identification of Work” (IDoW), it is possible that the single-point accountability for construction management may be restricted to registered professional persons. www.saimeche.org.za

The results of the interaction between CBE, CIDB and SAIMechE resulted in the following findings:

1) Industrial clients are not bound by CIDB regulations, other than requirements for the registration of construction works contracts and requirements in terms of the CIDB Project Assessment Scheme and the CIDB Best Practice Fee. Other than this, the notion of Industrial clients that they must follow the CIDB regulations or Practice Notes is ill-founded, but the CIDB recommends that Industrial clients consider the CIDB Practice Notes. Industrial companies can follow their own procedures determining their own requirements of Project Management and Construction Management for their projects. There is no requirement to be registered with SACPCMP. However it is recommended that the design of the project should be under leadership of Registered Persons of ECSA. Notwithstanding this, the CIDB recommends that the construction of industrial works is managed by an ECSA or SACPCMP Registered Person.

2) Government clients and SOE’s must follow the CIDB regulations. In addition there is no obligation to be registered with ECSA or SACPCMP, although guidance for project and construction is given in CIDB Practice Note 31.

SAIMechE hopes that this matter is laid to rest. We thank the executives of CBE and CIDB for their pro-active input in clarifying these matters.

SA INSTITUTION OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING Council 2018 - 2020 Office Bearers President........................................................ Prof D Blaine (Debby) Vice President..........................................H Makwarela (Hangwani) National Treasurer............................... Prof JL van Niekerk (Wikus) Branch Chairpersons Central ................................................................. P Motleka (Portia) Eastern Cape.............................................. G van den Berg (Gideon) KwaZulu-Natal ........................................... Dr J Padayachee (Jared) Mpumalanga Highveld .................................... M Mashele (Mishael) Vaal................................................................. N Swanepoel (Niekie) Western Cape ....................................................Dr G Erfort (Gareth) Portfolios: Procedures..............................................................SZ Hrabar (Steve) Communications and Marketing.....................G Bartholomew (Bart) Projects and Systems Awards........................HG Bosman (Tertius) Membership .................................C Molomo-Mphephu (Cillia) Diversity and Transformation ..................R Tshitahe (Rudzani) Student and Candidate Affairs.......M Jansen van Rensburg (Marietjie) Chief Executive Officer............................... Vaughan Rimbault General Manager................................................ Uncel Mhelembe National Office Co-ordinator………...........… Carey Evans PO Box 511, Bruma, 2026 Tel: (011) 615-5660 Email: info@saimeche.org.za Website: www.saimeche.org.za Membership Email: membership@saimeche.org.za

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Company Affiliates Autodesk as represented by Wordsview Technologies

Plant Design & Project Services (Pty) Ltd (PDPS)

Babcock Nththuko Engineering Pty Ltd

PPS Insurance Co Limited

Eskom Rotek Industries SOC Ltd

Redheads Engineering Services (Pty) Ltd

Exxaro Resources (Pty) Ltd

S.A.M.E Water (Pty) Ltd

Festo (Pty)

SA Power Services (Pty) Ltd

Fluor SA (Pty) Ltd

Sasol Technology (Pty) Ltd

Kelvion Systemes (Pty)

Siemens (Pty) Ltd

Hatch Africa (Pty) Ltd

Spirax Sarco (Pty) Ltd

Howden Power (a Division of Howden Africa)

Tenova Mining and Minerals SA

Howden Projects (a Division of James Howden)

Proconics

Thyssenkrupp Engineering (Pty) Ltd Vital Engineering (Pty) Ltd

MBE Minerals (SA) (Pty) Ltd

Weir Warman Africa

Megchem

Thyssenkrupp Engineering (Pty) Ltd

Mod-U-Flow cc Osborn Engineered Products SA (Pty) Ltd

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

Vital Engineering (Pty) Ltd Weir Warman Africa

TRIBOLOGY

“Lubrication Engineering” by the South African Institute of Tribology Covid-19 and lockdown have strangled the economy over the past two to three months, and business now needs to recover and leap back into action by reviving productivity and assisting employees to improve themselves, while still maintaining the epidemic legal requirements.

T

ribology comes at a time when there is an urgent need to reduce friction and wear, to reduce energy costs, and to maintain optimum machine condition and productivity. Where tribology is correctly applied, the cost of production can be reduced and the return on investment can be improved.

Training in tribology and lubrication engineering will be needed by the employees who are returning to work, to enable them to make a positive contribution to any business that operates equipment, and training these employees will give them the needed impetus after the long lockdown.

Friction and wear occur at the interface between moving parts in any equipment, and the degree of friction and wear depend on the nature of the surfaces and the presence of any material between the surfaces. Friction and wear therefore can be controlled either by the materials used at the point of rubbing contact, or the presence of a lubricant.

These are materials engineering and lubrication engineering respectively.

On-line courses

The South African Institute of Tribology (SAIT) have developed courses in both materials engineering and lubrication engineering. These courses are ECSA approved and delegates can earn CPD points for each day of a course.

It is well documented by many experts in this field that a classroom or meeting environment is almost guaranteed to spread the Corona virus, if any of the delegates or participants are carrying the virus.

To maintain lockdown requirements, the SAIT is now offering the five day “Lubrication Engineering” course on line, using the Zoom video conferencing format. Delegates can log in completely safely from a work or home environment, all that will be needed is sufficient data and bandwidth to log in and interact from a normal computer that has a camera and microphone. A private and quiet room is also needed.

The 5 day Lubrication Engineering course offered by the SAIT will earn delegates 4 CPD points, and a certificate if the exam is written and passed.

Course Objectives: The course is designed to transfer a thorough understanding of tribology from a lubrication engineering perspective. Some twenty topics take participants through from basic chemistry and the theory of rubbing contact and friction in all industrial applications, to the appli-

Patrick Swan

cation of management principles, safety and the environment in tribology.

Who Should Attend? The course is aimed at maintenance personnel but will be of benefit to anyone concerned with the operation, maintenance, condition monitoring or management of industrial plant, machinery, transport and other lubricant related disciplines. Marketing personnel can gain valuable knowledge from the course.

Experience: Delegates are advised that they should understand what viscosity is, and should have at least twelve months experience in the lubricant and maintenance professions, with a minimum knowledge at trade test level.

Case Studies: Delegates are invited to bring their case studies, their problems and their questions to the course for discussion.

Course Content: Lubrication Terminology, Production of Lubricant Base Fluids, Basics of Lubrication, Properties of Oil, Additives, Greases, Lubrication Devices, Synthetic Lubricants, Fuels, Internal Combustion Engine Lubrication, Auto Drive Line Lubricants, Plain Bearings, Rolling Bearings, Gears & Gear Oils, Hydraulic Oils, Compressor Oils, Transformer Oils, Cutting Oils, Filtration, Condition Assessment & Failures, Used Oil Analysis, Lubrication Surveys, Storage and Handling of Lubricants and Environment.

Let us know if you are interested and wish to participate in this course.

Patrick Swan SAIT Vice President SAIT Office: secretary@sait.org.za

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COVER STORY

Finding Wastewater Solutions for Africa Engineers and representatives from KSB Group companies throughout sub-Saharan Africa have committed to finding workable solutions for Southern Africa’s growing wastewater crisis.

A

s governments and municipalities across Africa grapple with ways of dealing with growing wastewater requirements, it has become increasingly evident that a “one-size-fits-all” approach does not work and that differing conditions, such as sand contents, water quality and existing infrastructure, plays a large role in the specification of future pumping infrastructure requirements.

This has prompted the global pump and valve manu-

We want to bring international standards to local solutions and provide the kind of wastewater solutions that are affordable, durable and appropriate

facturer to play a more active role and lend its technical expertise - through its extensive network of regional companies, branches and dealers - which are well established in every country in the region, to assist wastewater entities.

Strategic training

Preparations to support the intensive new wastewater drive also got underway at the regional office of KSB Pumps and Valves in Johannesburg recently, when global expert, Ben Harrison, the regional application manager: MEAI KSB Global Corporate Water Department from Germany Halle (Saale), led a two-day workshop aimed at sharing country specific information and devising ways of working with authorities to provide wastewater solutions.

KSB staff from across Africa will be working towards finding waste water solutions for the continent

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“As one of the largest pump companies in the world and a major role-player in Africa, we are listening to the needs of the market and taking info from our representatives in each region to our technical department to find pumping solutions for each district.

Conditions vary from Kenya to DRC, Zambia, South Africa and elsewhere in Africa and we are inviting authorities to work with us to find specific solutions that will work for them.

“We want to bring international standards to local solutions and provide the kind of wastewater solutions that are affordable, durable and appropriate for the kind of maintenance and support that is available in that particular area. As a result, the purpose of the workshop was to provide resources to our regional staff that will enable them to work with local authorities to find answers to their needs,” says Ben.

Entrenched expertise

He explains that all KSB sales engineers are able to discuss requirements on equal terms with engineering teams and that they can call upon local and international expertise to find the right pumping solutions for the right job.

In most countries and districts in Africa, KSB is well entrenched as a main supplier of potable water and other fluid transfer solutions to governments and utilities - so it makes sense to expand solutions to include more solutions for wastewater applications.

Now that the company has assembled its internal staff and put in simplified structures to support wastewater pumps in each region, it can be expected that it will “hit the ground running” and make significant inroads in a market that currently does not enjoy the attention of other large pump manufacturers. In South Africa, KSB also has the advantage of being a Level 1 BBBEE contributor.

World-class services

“KSB has the support and expertise to support plans to deal with future wastewater requirements. We understand that expectations don’t differ by country and we assure customers that the same knowledge that is required for engineers in KSB, is the same requirement in every country.

That means that customers are assured of receiving world class service wherever they may be, albeit in Johannesburg, Kinshasa, Nairobi or anywhere in Africa. As a customer they can expect the same outcome, the same service and support that they would receive anywhere else in the world. It is also advantageous that sewage pumps are part of the South African production portfolio for quick access to the regional market.

“This is our way of reaching out to the wastewater industry in Africa and we invite each and every entity involved in the process to interact with us and to make use of our services,” Ben concludes.

KSB Pumps and Valves Annett Kriel, Tel: (011) 876-5600 Email: Annett.Kriel@ksb.com www.ksbpumps.co.za

KSB mining manager meet

Pumping-up Mining Performance World leading pump manufacturer, KSB, is on a drive to further strengthen its mine pump offerings by combining pooled resources of its global design and manufacturing hubs to deliver the best possible products and services to its customers more quickly.

As part of its worldwide Climb 21 initiative the group recently convened a KSB global mining meeting to set the stage for the new program. The meeting included all the key companies and countries involved in KSB mining including managing directors from Brazil, South Africa, Chile, Australia, Canada, USA and others.

According to South Africa’s David Jones, the regional sales and head of mining of KSB Pumps and Valves, the meeting served as an introduction of the Global mining team and strategic alignment between all manufacturing plants, establishing common activities and measures for the future, including hard rock mining, industrial mineral and dredge mining.

It also represented the first time that the giant organisation’s decision-makers had the opportunity to meet each other face to face and provide opportunities to network and get to know each other to improve communications. There was also an opportunity to visit the upgraded facility at the company’s GIW plant which showcased the new foundry as well as the impressive new machining capabilities of the flagship mining pump plant.

“Our South African operation was well represented by Peter Weber, managing director, Clinton Harris, operations manager and myself. We believe KSB South Africa should be part of the global supply chain for mining products produced in South Africa which will be a huge benefit for our company and the country.

“The local market can also expect new product technologies to arise as a result of the closer cooperation, including new products and special materials in future. As part of the global team there will also be even better sales and support for the local market in future,” says David.

He concludes that the rollout and development of these will happen within the next few months but other benefits will be seen immediately and initiatives like the company’s “Slurry Champion” program will be re-introduced to recognise service excellence of its employees in the mining industry.

KSB Pumps and Valves Annett Kriel, Tel: (011) 876-5600\ Email: Annett.Kriel@ksb.com www.ksbpumps.co.za

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BOILERS AND COOLING TOWERS

Water Softener Maintenance All boilers and cooling towers need a water softener to help to prevent scale on heat transfer surfaces. It’s important to maintain these softeners to avoid equipment or machinery failures, and unnecessarily high energy costs.

“

A water softener removes hard water minerals, like calcium and magnesium, which can cause scaling and damage in the boiler tubes,” explains Lionel Maasdorp, MD at Allmech, a South African manufacturer of boilers and supplier of water treatment components.

“Cooling towers are another common application for industrial water softeners. They can operate much more efficiently with softened water. This can help to realise a drastic reduction in maintenance requirements, chemical feed quantity, and the volume of water required for operation. The correct balance of minerals of incoming water to industrial systems is essential to the proper operation and maintenance of expensive equipment.”

Stops the salt from dissolving properly, often because the salt has been thrown directly into the brine tank without the bag While Lionel says water softeners are fairly low maintenance equipment, he recommends regular service visits are carried out to ensure that they are operating optimally.

How softeners work

Water softeners use a process called ion exchange to soften the incoming raw water. The process involves the transfer of unwanted hard ions, such as Calcium (Ca+) and Magnesium (Mg+), from the water to a solid substance that accepts these (the resin), and exchanges the ions for a desirable type of ion. Water softeners usually use sodium (Na+) as the exchange ion. Sodium ions are sup-

plied from dissolved sodium chloride (salt). As hard water passes through a softener, the calcium and magnesium trade places with sodium ions.

“Every softener has a bed of resin, which extracts the hardness in the water by capturing the calcium and magnesium ions that cause hardness,” explains Lionel. “After a while, the resin bed becomes saturated with these hardness-causing minerals, and there comes the need for ‘regeneration’. Softener regeneration is simply the process of removing the minerals or ions absorbed from the resin beads in the water softener.”

The regeneration cycle, which restores the exhausted resin capacity consists of four steps: backwashing, brine rinsing, slow rinsing and fast rinsing.

“Water softeners must regenerate regularly to function properly. While some softeners regenerate daily, others may regenerate once or a few times a week, and some may regenerate just once in two weeks. The frequency of regeneration depends on the volume of the tank, water usage, and hardness of the raw water.”

Key maintenance considerations

When it comes to onsite water softener maintenance, it’s important to check the salt level in the brine tank regularly, and to use the right kind and quality of salt.

“You also need to eliminate what we call ‘salt bridges’ in the brine tank. This is when a hard salt crust develops, which means there’s a barrier between the water and salt which stops the salt from dissolving properly, often because the salt has been thrown directly into the brine tank without the bag,” says Lionel. “Keeping the brine tank clean of mud, build-up or debris at the bottom of the tank is important to keep it operating efficiently.”

He advises that users ensure the automated, semi-automated or manual softener control valve is operating correctly by regenerating the water softener as per its technical specifications.

A planned maintenance programme will ensure that problems are avoided or managed quickly as they arise. It is important to select the correct type of treatment plan to suit the operation’s needs. “At Allmech, we offer our customers a monthly maintenance service, which includes all the aspects required to keep their softeners functioning optimally.

“The pre-treatment system is the most critical part of the total boiler water system, as it ensures water impurities are either removed or reduced to acceptable levels,” Lionel concludes. “Taking proper care of the softener is the best way to protect your investment in boiler or cooling tower equipment.”

50mm pipe with scale measuring 10-12mm thick inside it. The flow of water has been dramatically reduced due to lack of maintaining the softener.

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Allmech Tel:(011) 849-2731 Email: lionelm@allmech.co.za www.allmech.co.za

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

SOLAR

Commercial and Industrial Systems With the global and local economy reeling from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, businesses are being forced to cut operational costs wherever possible. “These uncertain times make it very difficult for businesses to get a handle on their near-term revenues and finance costs. That leaves the operating cost line as one of the few things they can try to control, and energy cost savings can play a big role here,” says Tim Frankish of solar energy company SolarSaver.

T

im says that while most business owners agree that solar installations are a worthwhile investment, the current economic climate sees many businesses looking to preserve capital in the face of an uncertain future. “This is where SolarSaver’s offering really comes into its own,” he adds.

Tim Frankish

Instead of requiring clients to invest substantial capital to purchase systems outright, SolarSaver is able to offer a unique capex-free solution. “Our

rent-to-own model means systems are designed and installed free-of-charge and clients only pay for the cheaper, greener power that is actually produced.

Rates can be as much as 50% cheaper than the equivalent cost of grid power, which translates into significant operating cost savings for clients.”

A winning recipe

SolarSaver is backed by considerable investment from the Pembani Remgro Infrastructure Fund (PRIF), a US$302 million private equity fund established by Remgro Limited and Phuthuma Nhleko with a focus on infrastructure and energy-related investments in Africa. While SolarSaver was initially focused solely on Namibia, the PRIF investment has allowed the company to aggressively grow its South African portfolio as well.

Tested assurance that systems are designed to last and can be scaled to supply changing power needs To date over 180 installations have been completed across Namibia and South Africa. This portfolio represents the largest fleet of self-financed commercial and industrial systems in Southern Africa, with clients ranging from fuel stations to manufacturing businesses to large shopping centres.

Dirk Nel of Lynx Property Developers, developers of Lynwood Lane shopping centre in Pretoria says, “Solar has previously been expensive to install

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SOLAR

INDUSTRIES serviced : Oil and Gas, Petrochemical, mining, pulp & paper and water

Agent of RGR TECHNOLOGIES (API 6D Manufacturer in S.A)

and set-up. This way, our developments can immediately benefit from greener energy, without the capital outlay.”

Dylan Niemann, general manager of Mtuba Shopping Mall in northern Kwa-Zulu Natal concurs, “We are always looking for new initiatives that help reduce our impact on the environment. In addition, the irregular power supply and load shedding threats over the last few years have forced us to search for alternative ways to generate our own electricity. For Mtuba Mall, the SolarSaver solution is an absolute winner.”

Tim says another key benefit of the rent-to-own contracts is that the responsibility to monitor, maintain and insure the systems rests with SolarSaver. “Our clients have the tested assurance that systems are designed to last and can be scaled to supply changing power needs. It’s in our interest to ensure that the photovoltaic systems are operating at peak performance, which translates into better savings for our clients.”

Grid-tied versus off-grid solutions

While many businesses would like to eliminate the risk of loadshedding, going completely off-grid may not always make financial sense. While SolarSaver does offer both grid-tied and off-grid solutions, Tim advises that the focus of its rent-to-own model is daytime power generation through grid-tied solar to reduce electricity costs.

API 6D Monogrammed Swing Check Valve manufactured in SA

We are your ultimate valve solution provider...

Cell: 0824164959 Fax: 0865461771 www.valvesolutions.co.za

“We’re offering to invest our own capital to provide clients with long-term solutions, rather than trying to sell expensive quick-fixes. Our preference is to install grid-tied systems initially and then look towards adding battery storage facilities in future.

Our long-term goal is to provide our clients with 24-hour power through fully-financed, customised solar-battery systems. We believe that by partnering with businesses and investing with a long-term view, we can provide a real alternative to Eskom in future.”

SolarSaver Tel: (011) 463-5482 www.solar-saver.net

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ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Drive Engineered Packaged Solutions A particular feature of ABB South Africa drive technology is the inclusion of a synchronous bypass option unit. This allows one drive to start and accelerate up to eight individual motors on pump or fan applications, for maximum efficiency, says Sarel Pelser, MV Drives Product Manager.

T

he synchronous bypass unit does not impact drive functionality negatively. Apart from using the VSD as a starting and network synchronising mechanism via the synchronous bypass unit, the VSD can be implemented

for process control functionality by controlling the motor shaft speed during system operation.

This has the advantage of reducing mechanical and process system transients while gaining controllability during start-up conditions. The VSD can control the motor speed continuously for unlimited periods, with the option of synchronising the motor directly to the supply grid.

Using the drive data that has been stored remotely to deliver accurate realtime information about drive condition and events This is available with the specific MV drive product portfolio from ABB South Africa, such as the ACS1000, ACS5000, ACS580MV and LCI. The power and voltage range covered with this functionality is 2 300V to 20kV (motor voltages), with a motor power range from 200kW to 101MW available upon request.

Support

ABB South Africa specialises in large, complex and challenging customised application requirements.

It has a large local technical sales and service support base in Southern Africa covering the entire industrial spectrum.

Aftermarket support includes ABB Ability condition monitoring and remote assistance for drives. This ranges from rapid support for onsite problems, using the drive data that has been stored remotely to deliver accurate real-time information about drive condition and events, ensuring maximum equipment availability and reliability.

In addition, ABB Drive Care Agreements range from Initial Care, a free service for newly purchased ABB MV drives during the first year of the warranty, to Complete Care, which allows customers to focus on their core business thanks to a fixed-price lifecycle agreement. “The future of your drives and systems depends on the service you choose. Your choice should be based on a well-informed decision. We have the expertise and experience to help you find and implement the right service for your assets. You have our guidance and full support along the course you take, throughout the entire lifetime of your drives,� Sarel concludes.

ABB South Africa Tel: (010) 202-6995 Email:contact.center@za.abb.com www.abb.com

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CHEMICAL DISINFECTANT

Ozone – A Highly Effective Alternative Ozone is an incredibly powerful disinfectant against numerous types of bacteria and other organisms. It is many times more effective than even chlorine, one of the most widely used chemical disinfectants.

C

hlorine and other chemical disinfectants have been popular for their price/performance ratio. However, ozone has proven to be a highly effective and useful alternative. On its own, ozone is a potent yet environmentally friendly disinfectant agent that outshines other choices.

When using treatments that combine ozone’s immediate effects with long-term disinfectants, the results and savings can be significant.

The trial also established that, when used correctly, ozone caused no adverse contact effects afterwards “Ozone doesn’t last long, and it leaves no chemical residual,” says Brendan van Wyk, business development manager at Xylem. “If we were to disinfect a room with ozone, during the procedure it would be hazardous to be in that environment. But after about 20 minutes, it would be perfectly safe to re-enter the room, with little or no trace of any ozone being detected.

This is because ozone (O3) is very unstable and reverts back to oxygen (O2).”

This view is backed by research, such as trials undertaken in 2014 by Campden BRI. It found that ‘ozone at appropriate concentrations and contact times has the potential to be an effective environmental disinfectant.’ The trial also established that, when used correctly, ozone caused no adverse contact effects afterwards.

A powerful disinfectant

Ozone is brutal on organic material. Highly unstable, ozone attracts electrons from other compounds, oxidizing them and drastically reducing their integrity. In the case of biological targets such as bacteria, ozone

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attacks their cellular walls, causing the cells to rupture and ensuring there is no chance for the organism to build up an immunity to it, unlike other disinfectants. Ozone is very effective at oxidizing certain minerals as well. It’s used to remove manganese and iron out of drinking water, as an example.

If you want to disinfect a room thoroughly, flushing the room with ozone gas may do the trick. Modern HVAC systems often use ozone to purify air passing through the system to prevent mould and smell.

Ozone manufacture can be done quite easily and reliably, within a small footprint.

With no moving parts and few maintenance requirements, the system can be operated remotely with no human intervention. Ozone only needs power and air for manufacture, and the units can be custom designed to suit the specific project specifications.

Brendan explains, “Ozonated water is already used in places like abattoirs as wash water. This allows for maximum disinfection, but without a chemical residue that needs to be treated. It is easy to retrofit an ozone dosage system into an existing wash line. Clean technologies for rinsing and disinfection of milk bottles and soft drink bottles are already widely used.”

Safe and easy to use

Other examples of uses include cleaning animal enclosures and aquariums, rehabilitating smokedamaged rooms, washing taxi ranks, and disinfecting laundry. Ozone-enriched water is mighty as a disinfectant without leaving a chemical residual (as chlorine does) that could run into natural water systems through storm water channels and disrupt natural biological action.

As mentioned earlier, ozone gas breaks down quickly, rendered into harmless oxygen that can enrich the local atmosphere and improve the chemical oxygen demand (COD) of wastewater.

A specific application where ozone would also be very effective in disinfecting schools after the learners and teachers have gone home. Automated systems can flood the classrooms with ozone which would be more effective on non-uniform surfaces such as carpets, books and stationery that cannot necessarily be wiped down or covered. The ozone would then decompose fully before the return of the children and teachers, leaving a disinfected room.

Cost-effective

Ozone needs little to no handling. A modern ozone generator can operate without intervention

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and doesn’t require any chemical additives. This negates the need to stockpile chemicals, not to mention the risks of handling dangerous materials. Ozone is also very cost-effective: its capital investment is soon recovered through water and chemical savings, as well as a reduction in effluent treatment costs. Recoupment of capital costs can take as little as two years on industrial systems like cooling tower water treatment.

Automated systems can flood the classrooms with ozone which would be more effective on non-uniform surfaces such as carpets, books and stationery that cannot necessarily be wiped down or covered Brendan explains, “To give an example of how the costs work, let’s apply ozone to a water treatment plant. Normally, you’d apply large volumes of chlorine in the final stages of the treatment process. Much of this is first to disinfect the water, and the rest is to keep a residual for long term disinfection. If we added an ozone generator to the treatment process, the water is disinfected without the use of chlorine, then a much smaller amount of chlorine is added at the end of the process to keep the water clean.

“Ozone does the heavy lifting of primary disinfection, without the generation of chlorinated byproducts, while improving the taste and odour. It is much safer, and it requires smaller amounts of chemicals, so the costs of purchasing, storing and handling chemicals are reduced.”

Self-contained

Ozone technology offers different types of generators, from covering treatment plants to turning home pool water clean and bright. It is modular, environmentally friendly and a highly effective treatment product without the need for ongoing purchasing of chemicals and a workforce required for handling make-up and dosage requirements.

The systems are self-contained and operate without human intervention.

“If you are concerned about chlorine’s chemical footprint, or you want to handle disinfection in a much more efficient and effective manner, ozone is the answer. It’s Mother Nature’s own disinfectant: ruthlessly efficient but without leaving a calling card. Whether used to augment or replace other disinfection systems, ozone is a potent ally against infectious agents, a superior long-term disinfection and treatment investment that is friendly to the environment,” Brendan concludes.

Xylem Chetan Mistry Tel: (011) 966-9311 Email: Chetan.Mistry@Xyleminc.com www.xylem.com

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15

POWER TRANSMISSION

A First: Efficient Drive Belts Technology company Continental is equipping the wind turbines made by Chinese manufacturer Xinjiang Goldwind Science and Technology with drive belts. In this unique and patented construction, the belts manufactured at the Dannenberg location in Germany allow the rotor blades to be adjusted at any time without the aid of gears or hydraulics.

C

ontinental engineers used an optimal combination of two tried-and-tested timing belt technologies to develop the belts. Back in 2018, the company invested around 2 million in a new facility at the site in Lower Saxony to meet the Chinese company’s annual demand for over 100 kilometres of drive belts.

An efficient alternative

Goldwind is one of the few providers in the market to use a drive without a gearbox to adjust the blades, which is becoming vital to be able to respond flexibly to changing wind strengths. “Goldwind relies on timing belts,” says Rolf Marwede, who heads Continental’s location in Dannenberg. “There are some advantages to this. For instance, the system is less complex and therefore less prone to vibrations and disturbances at the top of the nacelle.

Our belts are also extremely low-wear and durable.”

“The fabric reduces wear and absorbs noise and also provides a much more stable structure for the timing belt. This enables us to significantly improve the belt’s performance yet further,” explains Rolf. The fabric reinforces the teeth and improves run-in behavior, which in turn boosts efficiency.

“Ultimately, we have brought together two product groups to develop the ideal solution for Goldwind’s application.”

Future production expansions

Continental manufactures the belts for Goldwind at its Dannenberg site, which is a competence centre for the production of polyurethane belts within the

The system is less complex and therefore less prone to vibrations and disturbances at the top of the nacelle The belts do not require any oil for lubrication and are very low-maintenance overall and also largely corrosion-resistant. In offshore wind turbines in particular, this last point presents a major advantage over conventional metal designs that are permanently exposed to salty sea air. “In comparison with gearbox solutions, a simpler design that uses drive belts is also more cost-effective and more efficient in the long term,” Rolf adds. If there is a defect, the system can also be repaired very quickly because only the belt needs to be replaced, not the whole gearbox.

The best of two worlds

For Goldwind, it was important to develop a low-maintenance and simpler alternative to the conventional gearbox system. The chosen belt solution was an exact match for these requirements and is based on Continental’s Synchrodrive technology. Galvanized steel cords are integrated into the belt’s interior and coated with polyurethane, which furnishes both the teeth and the back of the belt and forms an outstanding connection with the tension member. Polyurethane is particularly abrasion-resistant.

Offshore wind turbines have to withstand the salty sea air

The two opposing impact directions of the steel cords and their strands result in neutral running properties, making the belts extremely resilient. It is not uncommon for there to be around 12 million reverse bending cycles. But what makes the belts used by Goldwind so unique is the special fabric, which is manufactured at Continental’s location in Northeim. The drive belts make use of Synchrochain technology expertise for this application.

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company. The technology company installed a new facility for this very purpose last year. The hall out of which the facility operates, which was newly built in 2017, offers space for further production expansion.

“At a single location, we can not only offer Synchrodrive and Synchrochain belts, but also combine both product types with each other such as for Goldwind which has never been done before.”

Other energy sources

In addition to drive belts, the company supplies the wind turbine manufacturer with mounting elements, films for reducing wind resistance, and hydraulic lines.

Wind is an unlimited resource. Wind turbines are considered clean, with the wind power they provide being the ideal complement to other energy sources. By the end of 2019, wind turbines with a total output of around 650 gigawatts had been installed around the world. By way of comparison,

40 gigawatts would be enough to supply electricity to every household in Germany. With installed power of well over 200 gigawatts, China is by far the world’s largest wind market.

The fabric reduces wear and absorbs noise and also provides a much more stable structure for the timing belt Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2019, Continental generated sales of 44.5 billion and currently employs about 240 000 people in 59 countries and markets.

ContiTech AG Jochen Vennemann Tel: +49 (0)511 938-18024 Email: jochen.vennemann@contitech.de www.contitech.de

To meet Goldwind’s demand, Continental has invested around in a new facility in Dannenberg

2 million

The belts from Continental allow the rotor blades to be adjusted without the aid of gears or hydraulics In addition to drive belts, Continental supplies mounting elements, films for reducing wind resistance and hydraulic lines for the wind turbines

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POWER TRANSMISSION

Boosting Generator Life Bearings within wind turbine generators are increasingly exposed to high frequency electrical currents, but can be protected by fitting insulated versions which even work under conditions of high humidity, Alexander Strobel, Application Engineer at SKF explains.

B

earings must withstand some tough conditions, one of the most challenging of which is inside a wind turbine generator. As well as punishing environmental conditions, it’s difficult and costly to change these bearings. They must withstand whatever is thrown at them.

In addition, there is another challenge which lies in the nature of electrical machines, including generators. When electrical current passes through rolling bearings, there is a risk of electrical erosion which can threaten machine reliability. This erosion can damage and degrade bearings especially frequent converter driven machines.

Outdoor conditions

The first sign of the problem is usually a temperature rise. Condition monitoring systems will pick this up, though it will manifest itself in other ways too such as through the appearance of blackened lubricant (which has been burnt due to the raised temperature).

Condition monitoring systems will pick this up, though it will manifest itself in other ways too such as through the appearance of blackened lubricant At the same time, bearing vibration will start to occur. This will be detected by increased machine noise, or picked up by vibration monitoring sensors, if they are installed. It happens because the high frequency current flowing through the bearing is causing micro-pitting on the surface, leading to the vibration.

Generators used in wind turbines are even more prone to damage: they must survive punishing outdoor conditions (including fluctuating temperatures, changing load conditions, and salty sea air); and their remoteness means they must be effectively maintenance-free.

The only way to get 100% confirmation that bearing damage has been caused by electrical currents is to dismount the bearing and send it to its manufacturer for analysis where it may need to be cut and analysed. If electrical erosion is confirmed as the underlying reason, this at least means that the problem has been diagnosed and can be dealt with.

The first step towards a reliable solution is to ensure that the electrical system is properly set up. Including power supply, switching elements, cables, brushes and grounding.

It is also vital to use the right components to achieve a finely tuned system, These will not completely solve the problem, but will help to extend bearing life in the face of factors such as current leakage.

Insulated success

An added layer of security, helping to protect the bearing and lengthen the life in such situations, is to use an insulated bearing. A special coating prevents the passing of electric current, even under conditions of high humidity. As humidity reduces the function of standard insulation layer, the new protective sealant on SKF’s Insocoat is particularly useful in countries with challenging climate conditions as found in China and India These bearings are widely used in wind turbine generators. They have an aluminium oxide coating that is applied using a special plasma spray process. Ensuring an even thickness of coating helps to offer higher protection as current will always find the ‘weakest point’.

The single layer can be applied either to the exterior surface of the inner or the outer ring.

For generators and larger bearings in general coating on the inner ring is preferable, and is available for most sizes of bearing. However, it is wise to check in advance that it is available for specific applications. Coating the inner ring will lower the capacitance of the bearing system, and therefore raise the impedance, and so improve protection against current effects.

Extend bearing life

Insocoat bearings work over the same temperature range and have the same size as standard bearings, so can be substituted for them directly so there are no problems with mounting the bearing. Swapping out standard bearings and replacing them with Insocoat equivalents is a straightforward process, requiring no special tools or conditions.

To date, SKF has offered these bearings with a 100micron layer. However, a new generation is being rolled out with a 300micron layer which will provide a greater level of protection.

Unfortunately, electrical currents will always win out in the end, so any solution based on insulating layers can only alleviate – not eliminate – problems involving stray currents. However, the added protection given by SKF-Insocoat bearings helps to extend bearing lifetime and prevent machine downtime, boosting the economy and efficiency of wind turbine energy generation.

SKF Samantha Joubert Tel: (011) 821 3602 samantha.joubert@skf.com

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19

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21

ENGINEERING TWINS

Combining Music and Motorsport They may be non-identical twins, but when it comes to their biggest passions, Justin and Darren Oates (23) share identical interests in engineering, music and motorsport.

T

he Oates twins recently graduated as mechanical engineers during the University of Pretoria’s (UP) virtual graduation ceremony, in which 11 000 UP graduates were awarded their qualifications in absentia due to the lockdown necessitated by the global Covid-19 pandemic.

The twins, who also play the piano and have recorded music in English under the name Telepathy, but who switched to the Afrikaans market under the name Alter Ego, ¬had initially applied to study actuarial science, but during a gap year decided to switch academic streams and pursue degrees in mechanical engineering, partly influenced by their father, Cecil, who studied engineering.

Justin and Darren have specialised in motor vehicle engineering, which studies the behavioural characteristics of motor vehicles to predict or enhance specific dynamic or performance effects.

“Much of our passion in motor vehicles is centred on performance: acceleration, braking, cornering and ride,” they say.

Entrepreneurs

Motorsport is about precision, they add, which suits them down to a tee given their ‘calculated perfectionist personalities’. “With our passion for motorsport and the physics of vehicle behaviour, we finally decided that engineering is the way to go,” Darren says.

“We have always been entrepreneurial and are continuously thinking of new ideas. To our pleasant surprise we learnt that engineering built a solid platform for innovation and getting ideas into the real world.”

Justin (left) & Darren Oates. The twins at a music recording shoot

They hit the motor racing main circuit in 2015,

Darren Oates takes first podium of the season for signature motorsport

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competing in the VW Polo GTI Cup Series, which is the most competitive level of racing in the country, with Total as their sponsor. The twins continued to compete on the racing circuit while doing their final-year dissertation, which they completed in conjunction with Volkswagen South Africa’s motorsport division.

“We are very competitive, but not when it comes to academia,” says Justin. “As creatives, we don’t like judging a different way of thinking and therefore don’t compete by doing this. When it comes to sports, however, all bets are off.”

Challenging

Juggling their studies, motorsport and music was challenging at times and they were unsure that they would graduate together. “Sometimes one of us was less prepared than expected for tests and exams,” says Darren. “Studying for tests and exams while flying across the country and sitting with our work at airports and on airplanes made it difficult. But we did it.”

The brothers have some advice for those who would like to study engineering: “The discipline is very broad and will teach you skills in a variety of areas. It is very tough, and we felt like giving up several times just because we did not know whether it was worth pursuing something at this level of intensity for four years.

“Your first two years will feel very theoretical and you will start doubting your passion for engineering. But towards the end of your degree, everything will start making sense and you will appreciate the diverse knowledge you have obtained and how it all fits together.”

Don’t doubt your passion

They suggest that first-year students become part of a larger group to find a mentor and study buddy as it will help to figure out engineering concepts much faster. “We were fortunate to do it together as brothers,” they say.

The Oates twins completed their degree in the stipulated four years and are still participating in motorsport as well as working on a music album with producer Denholm Harding. “Our passion for motorsport will always run parallel to our engineering knowledge and will open up opportunities in future. We also aspire to share our music with the world. Music and racing are such great platforms.”

The twins during a media interview

To our pleasant surprise we learnt that engineering built a solid platform for innovation and getting ideas into the real world

SKF Multilog On-line System IMx-8

More data capture opportunities.

Even in a limited space.

SKF South Africa (Pty) Limited Tel: +27 11 821 3500 Email: sales.za@skf.com Web: www.skf.co.za

Prim Gower Tel: 083 229 9011.

Email: Primarashni.gower@up.ac.za

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23

REFRIGERATION

Outsourced Energy Solutions: Cooling as a Service The food manufacturing sector continues to fight valiantly in the face of mounting economic pressure compounded by the ongoing uncertainty and immense cost implications that increased Covid-19 infection rates might have on productivity. Now is the time for these businesses to radically rethink one of their biggest operational costs, energy consumption.

T

his is according to Cala van der Westhuizen, Head of Sales at EP Refrigeration – a division of Energy Partners and part of the PSG group of companies.

A possible consideration for food manufacturers to consider during these challenging economic times is the outsourcing of key utility services which impact an operation’s power consumption and capital investment decisions. This can be massively beneficial to helping a business restructure and become much more efficient.

“While many companies are putting cost-saving measures in place and streamCala van der Westhuizen, Vice President of lining their operations for Sales at EP Refrigeration maximum efficiency, the fact is that the industry cannot fight this battle on its own. Completely outsourcing one of the industry’s biggest cost drivers to dedicated service providers could go a long way towards providing companies in this sector with practical and immediate cost reduction options as well as long-term cost efficiency horizons.”

While many companies are putting cost-saving measures in place and streamlining their operations for maximum efficiency, the fact is that the industry cannot fight this battle on its own As an example, he points out that for many food producers, refrigeration constitutes a large part of their operational costs. “More specifically, it makes up about 25 to 40% of costs in food production businesses, 35 to 50% for food retailers, and around 50 to 80% for food logistics services. The energy cost tied to operating inefficient or ageing refrigeration infrastructure can easily spiral out of control and cost a business even more in energy consumption over time. Switching to cooling as a service (CaaS) is an extremely effective way of eliminating this risk.”

Guaranteed competitive cost

He explains that in a CaaS scenario, the business does

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not need to own any of the refrigeration infrastructure. Instead, a service provider owns and operates the refrigeration plant and sells the cooling produced at a guaranteed competitive cost.

“There are several benefits to this approach. To start with, the service provider provides all of the upfront capital investment and assumes complete maintenance responsibility and risk related to the refrigeration plant.

“Secondly, the service provider can install stateof-the-art refrigeration systems without the need for the business to provide upfront capital. This reduces the amount of electricity consumed by the business as well as removing the risk of breakdowns and extended periods of downtime.”

Cala cites the example of one of Energy Partners’ clients, Afrupro. “This fruit packing company was experiencing consistent problems with its existing industrial ammonia plant. Not only was it consuming excessive amounts of power, but the cold storage rooms were also operating above required temperatures as a result of the deteriorating system.

“Once we took over the ownership as well as the operation of their plant and invested in new infrastructure, we were able to reduce the energy cost of the site’s cold rooms by 20%. The contract also saved the company R3.7 million in capital expenditure.”

Combination

In addition, combining complementary outsourced utility services, such as renewable solar energy and steam generation, can have even greater beneficial effects, as in the example of Lynca Meats. The company engaged the services of Energy Partners for the outsourced production of solar energy, steam and refrigeration resulting in a reduction in the overall energy cost of more than 30%.

Lastly, Cala states that partnering with a service provider allows the client to make better business decisions through the intelligent application of data-led energy strategies. “Data is central to ensuring that an operation can make better business decisions in relation to its energy consumption, which is why a service provider should be able to provide real-time energy monitoring and additional long-term energy efficiency strategies to

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reduce energy intensity. At Energy Partners, our Intelligence division does exactly that, as well as engage with electricity suppliers on behalf of the user to ensure that the business is always charged the lowest possible tariffs.�

MLS Group Ahlumile Mahlinza Tel: 062 182 3463 ahlumile.mahlinza@mslgroup.com www.mslgroup.co.za

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25

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

The Balance between Engineering Passion and Professionalism Resolution Circle, a training hub that prides itself on providing experiential learning opportunities to undergraduate electrical and mechanical engineering students, believes the current crisis is an opportune time to harness the passion of hobbyists in South Africa to provide them with the skills to build careers in electronics and engineering.

“

Thanks in part to the availability of the open source Arduino hardware platform and the growth of 3D printing in the country, there is a strong community of enthusiastic makers out there who want to assist in creating solutions to help flatten the curve against the coronavirus.

This talks to how the community wants to come together to use their skills and resources to help solve a problem – in this instance a lack of ventilators. However, this must be approached with caution,” says Carl Spies, robotics developer at Resolution Circle.

Legal environment

Even though people are excited about the potential of creating ventilators, the technology itself is more sophisticated than simply pushing air into a patient’s lungs. And then there are a myriad of legal and certification issues to consider.

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“Just think of the consequences of a maker building a machine at home and putting it in a hospital where it could potentially damage someone’s lungs or even result in their death. With no certification standard in place for the making of home ventilators, there is no protection against any criminal case that will inevitably be opened against the maker.”

These challenges do not only centre on sophisticated solutions like ventilators, but also on simplistic ones such as the 3D printing of the plastic brackets to hold protective face guards. Because the virus spreads so easily, there is no way to guarantee hygienic protocols for all the makers out there doing printing from their homes.

Platform for innovation

“But instead of discouraging this passion, we are focusing on harnessing it and giving local hobbyists and makers a platform to channel that energy. To this end, one of the courses that Resolution Circle teaches involves additive manufacturing, more commonly known as 3D printing. We can build a database to identify those in the community interested to help and give them the means to build up their engineering skills,” adds Carl.

One of the courses that Resolution Circle teaches involves additive manufacturing, more commonly known as 3D printing With a shortage of engineering skills in the local and international markets, this way of channelling the focus of the community can result in career pathways into a professional environment.

“Engineers are driven by their passion but also have a professional responsibility to not risk any lives. To this end, we are making our fabrication services available to government and private sector stakeholders to assist in the manufacturing of any critical components required to combat the virus.

This, in addition to our work with the maker community, creates an enabling environment where we can affect meaningful change in the safest way possible.

“Despite the challenging times, there are also amazing opportunities out there for those who are passionate about getting into electronics and engineering. We are excited to be able to provide the skills and training required to help South Africans capitalise on this potential,” Carl concludes.

Resolution Circle Carl Spies Tel: (010) 020-3300 Email: info@resolutioncircle.co.za www.resolutioncircle.co.za

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27

AUTOMOTIVE

Insurance and Electric Vehicles “From supply chain networks to production processes to the product itself – the automotive industry will have to respond to many emerging risks to make the transition to electric vehicles happen,” says Daphne Ricken, senior underwriter liability at Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty.

“

The anticipated growth of electric cars brings the prospect of new defect or performance issues; more expensive repair costs; new fire and cyber threats; and even reputational issues around sustainable sourcing and disposal of critical components and raw materials for batteries.”

The International Energy Agency has predicted there could be more than 100 million electric cars on the roads in 2030, up from around seven million today, with annual sales in the region of 20 million, driven by growth in China the European Union, Japan, Canada, the US and India, in particular.

New risk exposures

While the coronavirus crisis may dampen the outlook for global electric car sales for 2020 and beyond, the anticipated long-term growth also brings a range of technical and operational risks, both from a product liability perspective and in other areas.

A rapid uptake in electric cars will require manufacturers to source sustainable supplies of critical components and raw materials as they ramp up production Safety and reliability: Tests conducted by the Allianz Center for Technology Automotive (AZT Automotive) have shown that the high voltage components of electric cars are well-protected and will not be affected in most crashes.

Statistical evaluation of Allianz claims also shows that electric vehicles are less likely to be involved in accidents today as they typically drive short distances with limited mileage overall. However, any damage sustained can be, on average, more expensive than for conventional cars.

If the battery in an electric car has to be replaced, it can result in a total loss in many cases. In addition, the fact that they can only go to specialist repair shops can contribute to costs.

ers and suppliers. A rapid uptake in electric cars will require manufacturers to source sustainable supplies of critical components and raw materials as they ramp up production. For example, battery technology will drive a huge increase in demand for cobalt and lithium, outstripping current supply.

Lithium supply has been predicted to triple by 2025. Effective recycling and reuse of materials will therefore be essential.

Environmental and social concerns will also put emphasis on the sustainable sourcing of minerals, as well as traceability and transparency of supply chains. High voltage batteries could also pose a pollution risk, if not properly disposed of.

Speed to market and potential defects and recalls: Manufacturers are under pressure to accelerate the transition to electric mobility. The combination of new technology, short development cycles and new 3D/4D printing in production could result in an increase in defects and quality issues, triggering product recalls for the automotive industry which are already among the largest and most complex of any sector, according to AGCS claims analysis.

Cyber concerns: Electric cars are likely to have increased connectivity and reliance on data, sensors and software, including artificial intelligence, to manage vehicle systems and aid driving.

As with conventional vehicles, increased connectivity is likely to give rise to cyber vulnerabilities, including the threat of malicious attacks, system outages, bugs and glitches. There have already been product recalls in the automotive sector as a result of cyber security.

Insurance implications and claims complexity Electric vehicles will consist of fewer but more integrated

Fire threat: As with conventional vehicles, defective electrical components and short circuits can spark a fire, while lithium-ion batteries may combust when damaged, overcharged or subjected to high temperatures. High voltage battery fires can be very intense and difficult to extinguish, and can also release high levels of toxic gases. Such fires can take 24 hours or longer to control and be made safe.

Due to the relative rarity of such fires to date, response and rescue services have limited experience of dealing with such incidents.

Environmental issues: Despite their green credentials, environmental issues can represent a potential liability and reputational risk for vehicle manufactur-

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Market share of electric cars 2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Australia

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

0.01%

0.01%

0.11%

0.19%

0.15%

0.25%

0.41%

0.02%

0.02%

Brazil Canada

0.02%

0.10%

0.22%

Chile

0.35%

0.45%

0.73%

0.99%

2.32%

0.01%

0.02%

0.02%

0.06%

0.07%

China

0.06%

0.08%

0.36%

0.98%

1.39%

2.30%

4.48%

Finland

0.12%

0.16%

0.41%

0.63%

1.20%

2.58%

4.74%

France

0.12%

0.33%

0.53%

0.70%

1.18%

1.44%

1.76%

2.15%

Germany

0.01%

0.11%

0.23%

0.42%

0.72%

0.73%

1.59%

1.96%

0.02%

0.06%

0.01%

0.02%

0.04%

0.02%

0.07%

0.04%

0.10%

0.06%

0.33%

0.58%

0.65%

0.69%

0.59%

0.50%

1.23%

1.13%

0.05%

0.12%

0.21%

0.34%

0.98%

2.21%

0.01%

0.06%

0.09%

0.14%

3.89%

9.75%

6.39%

2.67%

6.57%

0.09%

2.12%

India

0.01%

0.02%

Japan Korea Mexico

0.01%

Netherlands

0.15%

1.02%

5.38%

0.20%

0.58%

1.32%

0.31%

1.32%

3.24%

5.89%

13.34% 21.08%

26.64%

37.07% 46.42%

0.32%

0.12%

0.05%

0.17%

0.14%

0.56%

0.80%

1.89%

3.92%

0.06%

0.10%

0.05%

0.04%

1.44%

2.37%

3.41%

6.28%

7.92%

0.01%

0.03%

New Zealand Norway

0.22%

0.15%

Portugal South Africa

0.01%

Sweden

0.05%

0.31%

0.53%

Tailand United Kingdom

0.06%

0.13%

0.17%

0.59%

1.11%

1.39%

1.83%

2.10%

United States

0.17%

0.43%

0.71%

0.77%

0.70%

0.98%

1.26%

2.45%

0.09%

0.12%

0.29%

0.54%

0.72%

1.48%

1.21%

Others

Table A.7. Market share of electric cars (BEV and PHEV) by country, 2005-18 (%)

parts and components. What may have been three parts in a conventional car could be only one part in an electric car. However, the lower number of parts is increasingly connected through sensors and embedded software, adding a new layer of complexity and raising questions around how these parts interact and which producer or supplier is liable for a potential defect or faulty control.�

Fire and explosion risks associated with high voltage batteries could give rise to claims for commercial property insurers, in particular if multiple cars are charged in underground car parks The increased complexity of the automotive supply chain and the reliance on software and technology producers will lead to new exposures and split liabilities in the value chain.

Fumes

Fire and explosion risks associated with high voltage batteries could give rise to claims for commercial property insurers, in particular if multiple cars are charged in underground car parks. Claim scenarios are manifold ranging from overheated battery leads resulting in fires and property damage to breakdown, leading to fire, as a result of electronic failure of the battery management system.

Insurers may also expect to see a potential increase in product recall/liability claims from new technologies, components, faster development times and shorter testing periods. Last, but not least, there will be employers’ liability exposures such as potential toxic fumes and fire risks during 3D printing or the handling of lithium batteries related to fire and contamination.

Allianz Lesiba Sethoga Tel: (011) 214-7948 Email: lesiba.sethoga@allianz.com

THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

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MARKET FORUM

Cleaning project at foodprocessing plant Usually called upon to conduct maintenance, repair and inspection services at large-scale industrial structures such as smokestacks and petrochemical tanks, rope access specialist Skyriders recently completed an unusual project at a major food-processing plant.

“Our scope of work was to carry out general routine cleaning in inaccessible areas,” Skyriders Marketing Manager, Mike Zinn explains. A six-person team carried out the fast-track project over a two-day period, deploying high-pressure washers using food-safe detergent in order to adhere to the strict hygiene and health and safety standards of the food and beverage industry.

The food-processing plant was offline during the cleaning operation, which increased the pressure to complete the project in as short a time as possible so as to minimise downtime. Mike comments that Skyriders has its particular methodology for this client down to a fine art, as it has now completed about four projects at the same plant, each on a different line or section.

“The food-and-beverage industry is an important growth area for us. Our success with this particular client to date, a leader in its market, is largely because we have aligned ourselves both with its expectations and the stringent requirements of the industry itself,” Mike concludes.

Skyriders Mike Zinn, Tel: (011) 312 1418 Email: mike@ropeaccess.co.za SA Mech eng year planner www.ropeaccess.co.za

30

ad.pdf

1

2018/11/01

12:36 PM

THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

MARKET FORUM

Only 15 minutes Emerson’s Rosemount Thermowell Design Accelerator eliminates the largest pain point of temperature process design, manual thermowell iterations.

The Rosemount thermowell design accelerator is a free online thermowell design tool that eliminates manual thermowell iterations facing process design engineers when sizing thermowells. It is easy to use and intuitively guides users through complex projects, saving hours of wasted labour and resources. Users will be able to automatically iterate up to 1 000 thermowell tags with a single click, all optimised for their process conditions.

On average, engineers can spend 50 hours doing thermowell calculations for a single project. Nearly 20 variables related to process conditions and thermowell dimensions are used to find a safe and efficient solution.

Temperature points often need to be recalculated three to four times using traditional trial-and-error methods before passing global standards for safe operation outlined by The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

Using the Thermowell Design Accelerator, engineers can reduce design ideation time to just 15 minutes.

The software uses ASME PTC-19.3 TW (2016) criteria and has built-in quality checks to confirm safe thermowell results that protect processes and the people who operate them.

Emerson Devesh Roopnarain,Tel: (011) 451-3700 Email: Devesh.Roopnarain@Emerson.com,www.emerson.com

Representation of Thermowell Dimentions

Urgent dewatering solutions Responding quickly with the right solutions, Integrated Pump Rental has continued as a secondary emergency supplier throughout the lockdown, including helping to dewater a coal mine in northern KwaZulu-Natal.

equipment to prevent flooding in the open pit,” says Henru Strydom, operations manager at Integrated Pump Rental. The unexpected failure of one of the mine’s own pumps came at a bad time.

“The customer urgently needed fit-for-purpose dewatering

The national coronavirus lockdown meant that it would be some time before pump repairs were possible. Some heavy downpours aggravated the situation, demanding that there be no delay in pit dewatering.

The answer came in the form of a Sykes HH130 high-head diesel-driven pump. The rugged, five tonne unit was promptly delivered to site by truck, and transferred to an on-site trailer for easy mobility. The six-inch pump is capable of pumping at a head of over 140 metres high at a flow of between 80 to 90 litres per second.

“From our experience of the mining sector, we know that water in a coal mine is acidic,” Henru says. “The complete pump-end we supplied was, therefore, of stainless steel construction to resist corrosion and ensure reliability and uptime.”

Even as most business activity came to a standstill, rainfall across much of the coal-producing province of Mpumalanga raised the risk of flooding and led to Integrated Pump Rental also delivering solutions to a number of its customers there during the lockdown.

Integrated Pump Rental supplied a Sykes HH130 pump to dewater an open pit in KZN during the lockdown

Integrated Pump Rental Tel: (011) 894-2906 Email: admin@pumprental.co.za www.pumprental.co.za

THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

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MARKET FORUM

Hospital’s standby needs A generator set installation at a Cape Town private hospital will soon be commissioned by Zest WEG, providing a plugand-play solution with high reliability and minimal downtime.

“In a design that suited the hospital’s severe space constraints, we built the generator, transformer and remote radiator into special ISO shipping containers in a doublestack configuration,” says Johannes Nel, operations manager – production at Zest WEG. “The contract also included the refurbishment of the client’s existing 1 000 KVA 400V MTU open-type generator which was included in the solution.”

The new genset expands the hospital’s standby generating capacity to 1 MVA continuous rating, allowing 100% of the institution’s functions to continue as normal during periods of load-shedding.

Johannes also highlights that reliable supply was key to the hospital’s safe and efficient operation, whether from mains or back-up supply.

The genset installation will expand the hospital’s standby generating capacity to 1 MVA continuous rating, allowing 100% of the institution’s functions to continue as normal during periods of load-shedding.

Zest WEG Group Tel: (011) 723-6000 Email info@zestweg.com www.zestweg.com

Minerals

Your trusted partner of choice

For more information or assistance call us on +27 (0)11 9292600 or visit us on www.global.weir You can now buy your spares online at www.weirafricastore.com

32

SA MechEng year planner 2020.indd 1

THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

2019/11/05 13:47:35

MARKET FORUM

Customer training Werner Pumps SA, a South African design, manufacture, supply and maintenance specialist in high-pressure jetting equipment, has launched a programme to train its customers and their equipment operators on using the Werner Pumps trucks.

“We’ve always tried to help our customers to protect their investment in our jetting and vacuuming trucks by giving them advice on proper use and care of their equipment,” says Werner Pumps MD, Sebastian Werner.

“Now we’ve formalised that into a training programme that we will make available free of charge (the first time) to existing and new customers. Refresher training is also available if required.”

The training takes place at the Werner Pumps offices and is available to any customer who has purchased a Werner Pumps truck unit or trailer unit. Customers are invited to send their truck operators and assistants for a one-day training session that focuses on understanding the vehicle, its controls, how to operate it and general care and maintenance.

“Every participant receives a training manual and a certificate of completion after going through the training,” says Werner concludes. By doing the regular checks we recommend and using the truck as it’s designed to be used, operators keep the equipment in top condition, resulting in efficient operation and optimisation.”

Werner Pumps Sebastian Werner, Tel: (011) 362-6280 Email: sebastian@wernerpumps.com, www.wernerpumps.com

Fabulous filters

BMG’s fluid technology services include solutions for hydraulics and pneumatics, lubrication, fuel and industrial filtration systems, hydraulic hose and fittings, as well as instrumentation, pumps and industrial valves.

Group. These components, with defined filter performance and purity class, comply with stringent DIN and ISO standards and have all other necessary standard industry approvals,” says David Dyce, business unit manager, Fluid Technology, BMG.

“The range encompasses FG EcoPart filter elements for stationary and mobile hydraulic systems from the Filtration

“FG EcoPart series, which includes a wide range of pressure filter and return filter elements, is available from BMG in different versions, with various grades of fineness.”

These components are suitable for diverse hydraulic applications, as well as gear oil treatment. FG Filter elements are designed to reduce the solid particle contamination to the prescribed contamination class, to prevent the ingress of dirt from the environment and maintain the properties of the hydraulics fluid for an extended time period.

Included in this range are FG desiccant breathers, which protect lubricants and machines from damage caused by moisture and the ingress of particles.

BMG Bernie Nel Tel: (011) 620-7199 Email: bernien@bmgworld.net www.bmgworld.net

FG desiccant breathers protect lubricants and machines from damaged caused by moisture and the ingress of particles

THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

33

WORLD-CLASS performance requires speed, agility and endurance

STRATEGY

INFRASTRUCTURE

OPERATIONS

Planning strategic direction benchmarked to world-class standards

Development of world-class infrastructure from concept to realisation

Development of operations to best practice and world-class standards

Supply Chain Strategy

Facility Design & Development

Process & Operations Design

• Supply Chain network analysis & design • National & Regional DC strategy development • Facility Sizing and OPEX estimates • On-line fullllment • Slow vs. Fast movers network set-up • A Supply Chain that supports business strategy • Site development strategies • Technology, IOT and digitilisation strategy

• Greennelds site development

• Operations assessment and benchmarking • WMS / WCS review • WMS / WCS functional requirements • Process and operations optimisation • Long term operational development strategies • Process audit • Labour standards and incentive programs

planning • Brownnelds site development planning • Functional building requirements speciication • Technical liaison to professional / development team • Facility sizing requirements (short to long term) • Design to execution • Procurement, program and vendor management

In today’s competitive business world you need to focus on every opportunity to advance your company mission

34

THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

ils-ct@ils.co.za ils-jhb@ils.co.za www.ils.co.za

MARKET FORUM

Up-and-Running Keeping its customers up-and-running during the lockdown and providing them with the same level of service and support that they are accustomed to has been a priority for Bobcat Equipment South Africa.

An example of this is its relationship with Drizit Environmental, a local manufacturer of a comprehensive range of pollution control products to maintain a safe and healthy working environment that complies with all of the necessary legislation.

“Our relationship with Bobcat is recent, maybe less than 12 months. We thought its equipment would be really useful for our clean-up work, so we started off with two smaller Bobcat skidsteer loaders,” Drizit Environmental MD, Greg Parton explains.

Such has been the success of the Bobcat equipment that Drizit Environmental has just acquired two B730 tractor loader backhoes (TLBs) to be deployed on a major petrochemical pipeline project. The TLBs will be used to clear up any contaminated soil in order to ensure that the project site is environmentallyfriendly at all times.

Commenting on the company’s relationship with Bobcat, Parton adds that it is a well-known brand with major traction in the market. “As a result I have wanted to purchase Bobcat equipment for some time now. The service back-up is excellent. All promises made are followed up on and delivered quickly.”

Goscor Group Madel Dalla Pria Tel: (011) 230-2600 Cell: 071 382 9553 Email: mdpria@goscor.co.za www.goscor.co.za

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ɯɯɯِƫƺƏȸǣȇǕɀِƬȒِɿƏ

THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

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MARKET FORUM

Optimising performance Weir Minerals has announced the global launch of its Accumin lubricators, following international demand for the superior-quality grease lubrication which has been ensuring optimal performance for equipment such as Warman slurry pumps in APAC since 2014.

from bearing failures and frees up man hours for more critical tasks.”

Weir Minerals Africa Tel: (011) 929-2600 www.minerals.weir

Across more than 100 sites, the Accumin lubrication system has proven itself an efficient way of preventing expensive bearing assembly failures. It reduces maintenance downtime and promotes safety by decreasing the amount of manual interface to keep equipment performing.

“At Weir Minerals, we make the market leading slurry pump for mining applications, but we can’t always control what happens when it gets to site. Between dust, overflow and gland seal leaks, lubrication is a vital tool in the constant battle to keep machinery going,” Michael Roinich, Accumin Specialist at Weir Minerals, says.

Having this lubrication system fitted prevents over and under greasing, protects equipment wme_quarter page_ad_FINAL.pdf

Accumin lubricators ensure optimal performance for Warman slurry pumps 1

2019/10/31

12:37

Same-day VSD solution

VersaFlo pumps

manufactured by Walter Meano Engineering.

We have over 40 years’ experience and ISO 9001:2015 accreditation, resulting in WME’s products being renowned for their performance, quality and robust design.

C

When a manufacturing facility on the East Rand in Johannesburg required an urgent replacement Variable Speed Drive (VSD) for an extraction fan in its welding facility after the existing drive broke down and halted production, it turned to leading supplier Bearings International (BI) for a solution.

Not only did BI have a 75kW VSD available ex-stock, its technical department assisted the customer with the installation, integration and commissioning of the new drive so that it could be back up and running on the same day it was supplied, Product Manager Andries Barnard reveals.

“The VDrivePlus is specifically designed for all variable torque applications and ease of integration with existing control configurations,”Andries explains. The VDrivePlus and AlphaDrive-Micro VSDs are electronic motor control solutions from Hudaco Group Company Varispeed, available from BI as part of its integrated solutions approach.

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

From left to right: VSE 100, VPM E, Diapump, Pompie and VPM H.

Cnr. Aquila & Orion Streets, Germiston Ext 17 PO Box 797, Germiston, 1400 Tel: +27 (11) 873-8620 | Fax: +27 (11) 825-1401 | Email: wme@mweb.co.za Web: www.versaflo.co.za

36

THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

The VDrivePlus from Varispeed ranges from 0.4kW to 400kW, available in 240V and 400V. This more advanced VSD features advanced motor control based on DSP technology, together with ‘smart’ auto-tuning. Additional features include flexible inverter control, dual high-resolution analogue inputs and free mappable I/O channels.

The AlphaDrive-Micro VSD from Varispeed is a compact frequency inverter ranging from 0.2kW to 5.5kW, and available in 240V and 400V. Together with the VDrivePlus, these VSDs offer the best performance-to-cost ratio on the market, without compromising on quality and reliability.

BI, Tel: (011) 899-0000 Email: info@bearings.co.za, www.bearings.co.za 24 HOUR HOTLINE: 083 250 9191

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

MARKET FORUM

Special Agitator Design For mixing, stirring, blending, aerating and kneading applications in a range of industries from food and beverage to biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and chemicals, SEW-Eurodrive. can supply standard gear units in a special agitator design.

mixers and agitators, using tried-and-tested standard gear unit series. SEW-Eurodrive is able to supply these gear units to cover blender, agitator, aerator, mixer or kneader applications in a range of industries.

Gear units in an agitator design are often equipped with an extended bearing housing optimised specifically for use in

The benefits of these gear units in an agitator design include a FEM-optimised housing for particularly high permitted overhung loads. What is more, no additional bearing is required to absorb the axial and radial forces generated by the agitator shafts. The shaft and flange dimensions are compatible with standard dimensions.

Different options and design variants are available to accommodate a range of applications, including a special explosionproof design for hazardous areas.

SEW-Eurodrive Tel: (011) 248-7000 sewjhb@sew.co.za sew-eurodrive.co.za

A tangible difference Lubrication Engineers (LE) South Africa is using a simple mechanical test tool called the ‘rat trap’ to demonstrate how two supposedly similar lubricants may behave differently under pressure.

“People often think a grease is a grease is a grease,” says Callum Ford, National Marketing Manager at LE South Africa. “However, greases are used for such a wide range of applications that there are specialist products for specific uses. They differ massively in viscosity and their properties “Equipment manufacturers will typically specify the NLGI grade required on their equipment,” says Callum. “If it specifies NLGI 002 and you’re using NLGI 3, you’re going to run into problems, because the grease penetration is different.”

Importantly, and this is where the rat trap comes in, even greases with the same NLGI rating will behave differently depending on the base and additives with which they are made.

that is able to withstand extremely heavy loads, chemical attack and temperatures up to 1 038 degrees Celsius. It is attracted to metal surfaces, forming a microscopic layer, but not building on itself or affecting clearances. Almasol minimises metal-to-metal contact and the resulting friction, heat and wear.

With two different lubricants applied to the rat-trap, a grease without Almasol inevitably disperses from the joint where it’s been applied much quicker than one that contains this additive. “The non-Almasol grease loses its tackiness and heats up far more quickly,” says Callum. “Each of our unique, proprietary additives has been designed to yield specific benefits. This is a tangible way we can show our customers exactly the difference that Almasol can make in protecting their equipment.”

LE, Callum Ford, Tel: (011) 464-1735 Email: callum@lubricationengineers.co.za www.lubricationengineers.co.za

“We use the rat trap to show clients how two lubricants with the same NLGI grade react differently to the same force or pressure over time,” Callum explains. “The rat trap is a simple brute force tool that snaps a spring-loaded clapper onto two metal plates. We apply one grease to the one plate of the apparatus (normally a competitor product) and then LE’s equivalent NLGI grease to the other. We then pull back the spring-loaded clapper. When we release it, it hits both plates with the same speed and force.

We then compare how the two lubricants have reacted. We can snap the device several times to simulate what would happen over time or continuous use.”

LE’s greases use a proprietary additive called Almasol, which is a solid wear-reducing additive THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

37

On the Move

MARKET FORUM

Burak Özyurt SKF South Africa is pleased to announce the appointment of Burak Özyurt as the company’s new Managing Director

An unexpected concern

Turbulence intensity Delta OHM, a member of the GHM Group, has launched their new generation Thermal Microclimate HD 32.3 TC data logger, a portable measurement instrument for microclimate and indoor air quality analysis specifically for thermal comfort assessment. The company was the first to introduce a portable instrument that had an instantaneously calculation of the PMV/PPD (predicted mean vote/ predictive percentage of dissatisfied) and WBGT (wet bulb globe temperature) index and could directly display these values.

Research among users resulted in additional functions being incorporated into the Thermal Microclimate HD32.3 TC, and the company has now added the turbulence intensity as one of the new parameters.

There were requirements to be able to identify the specific measuring places, a need for a memo recording function and in the case of long-lasting measurements, that measurement data could be remotely accessible. These too have been added to the Thermal Microclimate HD 32.3 TC Jan Grobler, Managing Director of GHM Messtechnik, South Africa says, “Building managers will benefit from the this logger device due to its advanced technology which enables all applicable factors that influence thermal comfort to be accurately assessed and analysed resulting in best practice for building and workforce health. This is particularly important in view of the need to identify potentially dangerous environments”.

Messtechnik South Africa Jan Grobler Tel: (011) 902-0158 Email: info@ghm-sa.co.za www.ghm-group.de/en/ghm-group/international/south-africa

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THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Surface miners and stakeholders in the industry are putting their heads together to devise ‘real-world’ solutions to Covid-19 related health and safety problems that are being encountered on the country’s mines.

In a first-of-its-kind online Zoom meeting involving many of the industry’s top health and safety practitioners under the banner of industry association, ASPASA, the meeting focussed on interventions that are being undertaken by the mines to curb the spread of the disease and deal with positive cases among their ranks.

“The beauty of the online meetings is that the speakers are immediately open to questions and members of the meeting can share ideas and devise best practices. It also allows for screen sharing of photographs, charts, worksheets and other visuals that paint a picture for others to better understand the speaker’s input,” says Nico Pienaar, director of ASPASA. An unexpected concern was the mental wellbeing of workers where it was noted, almost without exception, that workers are fearful of the disease, as well as the potential financial and economic aftermath, and that interventions may be necessary to deal with subsequent mental health issues in the near future.

It was also noted that social media has had a big role to play in scare-mongering with many posts claiming that people are going to die en masse and that millions of jobs are on-the-line.

“This is something that will need to be managed on a case-for-case basis, while simultaneously devising effective communication strategies to share facts about the disease and each particular mine’s wellbeing. It shows that this kind of information sharing is invaluable and lends experience to others who are yet to encounter these problems,” Nico concludes.

Aspasa Nico Pienaar Tel: (011) 791 3327 Email: nico@aspasa.co.za www.aspasa.co.za

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

High security welded mesh

Pallisade

Gates

Gate Automation

Razor wire and more ....

What is High Security Weld Mesh HIGH Security Weld Mesh is wire fused and welded at a Horizontal distance of 76.2mm and a vertical distance of 12.7mm also known as 35B/3510 where 3 denotes 3”(distance between vertical wires), 5 denotes 0.5” (distance between horizontal wires), and B or 10 denotes gauge of wire

Salient Features •

Difficult to Climb: The spaces between the Horizontal wires are too narrow for fingers to have grip

•

Impregnable: Extremely difficult to cut with a hand cutter as the beak of a wire cutter will not be able to penetrate the horizontal wires

•

Excellent Replacement option to Solid Wall as:

1. More economical than a solid wall 2. Faster to install than a solid wall 3. CCTV Camera has a clear view •

Further upgrade possible with electric security system

•

Anti-corrosive & low maintenance

Standards •

Manufactured according to BS EN 10016-2

•

Wire Sizes in accordance with BS EN 10218-2

•

Tolerance on Mesh Size in accordance wiht EN 10223-7

•

Tolerance on Panel Size in accordance with EN 10223-4

•

Welding Strength in accordance with BS EN 1461

•

Zinc Coating in accordance with EN 10245-1

•

Anti Corrosion in accordance with BS En 3900 E4/F4

Tensile Strength •

Wire has a tensile strenght of min 550 MPA

MARK: 083 454 6488

Email: mark@palifence.co.za

www.palifence.co.za THE SOUTH AFRICAN MECHANICAL ENGINEER

VOL 70 Jul/Aug 2020

39

LET YOUR PUMP DO THE THINKING.

MegaCPK: the best standardized chemical pump in its class.

Your B_BBEEE Level 1 Partner

MegaCPK is a particularly powerful standardised pump destined for the chemical and petrochemical industry, and many other fields of application. The optimised design of its hydraulic components sets new standards in energy efficiency. This standardised pump offers particular flexibility and suitability for numerous applications, and can be easily adapted to local conditions.

Find out more at: www.ksb.com/megacpk KSB Pumps and Valves (Pty) Ltd Tel: +27-11-876-5600 www.ksb.com/ksb-za Your B-BBEE Level 1 Partner