Page 6 - Edition 16.3_web- Final

IPP & Renewables

IN-DEPTH MATERIAL KNOWLEDGE - A ‘VITAL’ The South African petrochemical industry plays a
SERVICE TO THE PETROCHEMICAL SECTOR significant role in the local economic growth so desperately
required in South Africa currently. The sector is under
pressure from many reasons including the trend towards
the reduction of operational carbon footprint, there is also
a proliferation of new technological developments.

These represent new and dynamic Vital’s glass-fibre reinforced resin (GRP) or configurations with tailored products to
opportunities for the industry to exploit, if it aluminium gratings are suitable for non- meet their specific industry requirements as
can evolve apace with industry developments. spark environments” Pringle points out. far as possible.

This is an exciting and concerning time Petrochemical plants also produce certain We also do our best to provide them with
according to Glen Pringle, Director of Vital products that could be either mechanically or valuable guidance and advice based on our
Engineering. chemically aggressive and corrosive, acidic or deep-seated manufacturing knowledge
alkaline in nature - representing yet another of each product, and its suitability and
“Looking at this exciting industry further set of limitations and specific requirements application. We therefore invite clients
afield, there is a myriad of positive regarding the construction materials of choice. to include us at the initial project design
developments throughout the rest of Africa,” stage. Sometimes new product variations
Pringle observes. “As we thoroughly understand the properties or material additives may have become
of our products, which are influenced by available, which could make their design
“Increased oil and gas exploration, potential factors such as manufacturing method, more optimal,” he remarks.
new refineries and extensions to existing structural configuration and chemical
refineries are planned along the East and additives, we can lend valuable support to “Our success is dependent upon that of
West African coasts. This is a clear indication our clients, so that the correct products are our clients, and we are determined to
that the greater petrochemical sector is specified, leading to enhanced plant lifetime continue providing this ‘vital’ service to the
definitely not stagnant,” he adds. and performance - and, most importantly, petrochemical sector,” concludes Pringle.
reduced safety risks,” he adds.
Having been a key supplier of a wide About Vital Engineering
range of products including gratings, stair Vital Engineering’s products which are Since 1939 Angus McLeod and Vital
treads, pressed pattern floors and safety particularly popular in the petrochemical Engineering have established a reputation
handrails to the petrochemical, mining industry typically include its mini-mesh for quality and service in the manufacture
and other industries for the past 80 years, or solid top GRP products, aluminium or of all types of gratings, stair treads, pressed
Vital Engineering is very well acquainted stainless-steel patterned plate products, and floors and safety handrails. Its brand names
with the needs of the industry - and with expanded metal products for applications of Vitagrid® and Maclock® have become
developments in materials technology. This such as safety guards, lock-out areas, and synonymous with versatility, quality and
has placed the company in the privileged secure areas on petrochemical plants. service.
position of being able to continually meet “Our clients value the fact that our entire
the needs of their petrochemical clients range of products - which includes mild The Group offers a wealth of product
by adapting and expanding their product steel, GRP, aluminium, ferritic and non-ferritic expertise and has been involved in the
ranges in line with international industry stainless steel - is manufactured according to supply to power plants, petrochemical
requirements and trends. the most stringent international standards, plants, materials handling projects, mining,
including ISO 9000 /15. Meaning they can process plants, food, beverage as well
“We are pleased to have a secure base of rely on Vital Engineering to supply them with as most facets of the civil and structural
repeat business within the petrochemical an exceptional quality product,” he continues. engineering industries, both domestically
sector - and a growing base of referred clients and internationally.
– Vital Engineering enjoys a reputation for It is therefore no wonder that a growing
supplying uncompromising quality products number of clients have been specifying Vital A variety of products and materials for
which are reliably produced on-time, on- Engineering’s product ranges in their designs. numerous applications are readily available,
specification and within budget,” he says. when either costs or corrosion are factors.
“Vital Engineering are extremely proud The range includes bitumen dipped,
The petrochemical industry furthermore to be the supplier of choice to these galvanised (610g/m2) and mild steel. Other
has very specific requirements of the consulting engineers and clients, and we grades of materials such as SS304, SS316,
construction materials used, depending on truly go the extra mile to keep it that way. structural grade aluminium and 3CR12 can
the particular context or application. Vital engineering offer our clients many also be manufactured.
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