May 2012

On the cover this month we highlight Driver Training, and with the enormous responsibility that a truck driver has on his shoulders - from ensuring fuel efficiency, vehicle roadworthiness and a constantly alert state of mind, in often less than ideal conditions - well trained and competent drivers are indeed the ultimate goal for the freight industry. CEN spoke to Scania and hear what they had to say on the matter.

How do you plan for your future when the SA investment outlook for 2012 remains depressed? In Industry Insight, Marriott Asset Management notes that in a depressed investment environment, the use of reliable income streams when constructing a portfolio remains prudent. Find out what they have to say on page 4.

In the Mining section 3D Laser introduces SiteMonitor, developed by UK-based 3D Laser Mapping Ltd, which is a state-of-the-art monitoring system, using advanced laser scanning technology with powerful, simple to use software, for monitoring open-pit mines.

Read too, how Rio-Carb have developed an ‘Ultrasmooth' approach to materials handling with their Ultrasmooth CrC liner plates at a number of materials handling projects across South Africa.

With companies forced to tighten their belts, re-manning and refurbishing equipment is becoming an increasing reality. Customers with limited budgets can receive state-of-the-art technological upgrades on older machinery, through refurbishment services offered by Pan Mixers South Africa (PMSA). Director Walter Ebeling notes that over the past three years, a large number of customers have opted to have their concrete block making machinery refurbished, as opposed to purchasing entirely new plants. Read further, about what he has to say on the subject.

And at the forefront of ceramic technology, Rojan Advanced Ceramics (part of the Ludowici Group of Companies since December 2010) offers an innovative ceramics range that was officially launched in South Africa with the Ludowici-Meshcape acquisition, to better serve the local market.

And as always, we are jam-packed with our regulars and industry updates.

So, be informed and enjoy the read!

Environment

Leading air-cleaning and dust control company ACTOM Air Pollution Control of Johannesburg, has been awarded a contract worth over R200-million to provide a range of filtration equipment for control of fumes and dust in the Phase 2 smelter expansion at Xstrata's Lion Ferrochrome complex, near Steelpoort, in Mpumalanga.

On-Road Trucks

This month we have an RFA Special 24-page insert, crammed with trucking-related info, from wellness and safety to how to manage and insure your fleet.

Company Profile

With its roots back in the US, ClarkLift forklift manufacturer takes pride in the fact that they actually invented the forklift truck and are therefore the most experienced forklift manufacturer in the world. See their timeline of innovations if you really want to be impressed!

Next month:

Half way through the year, and no slowing down in sight! Our Construction section has everything you need to know in our Road making equipment feature, as we cover various OEMs' product offering in this very active sector.