Strong growth for RBF Technology
May 2002
News
Specialist LV switchgear systems manufacturer RBF Technology of Johannesburg continues to entrench and improve their position in the marketplace by providing high-quality products and service to the industry.
The company distinguished itself over recent years by being the preferred supplier on a number of large, high profile projects worth more than R100 million for De Beers, Sasol, EMS, Batemans and others.
Projects in progress at present include Mozal II, the Hillside expansion at Alusaf, various projects for Sasol, and the mining sector's key growth areas, platinum and diamonds. These projects represent around R55 million of RBF's growing order book.
Johan, Basson, managing director, says the company recently launched the NATUS ENERGON system into the South African market, and have already received orders worth around R20 million for this high-tech product which is regarded as one of the most advanced fully-withdrawable motor control centres available on the international market. RBF manufactures and assembles the ENERGON system under licence to the principal company NATUS, in Germany.
Exports form a substantial part of RBF's business, and Basson says that more than 50% of total production is destined for installation outside the RSA borders. Besides southern African countries, RBF has exported to Turkey, Chile, Peru, Hong Kong and Mauritius. The company intends to grow its export business in the future to around 70% of turnover.
Basson says that RBF remains a key player in the market through ongoing commitment to stay abreast with new developments and requirements at all levels. Besides its ISO 9000 quality management listing, RBF's panels carry the SABS mark for compliance with SABS 1473-1, the performance specification for low-voltage switchgear and control gear assemblies, since 1991. This is a key consideration for customers who require a product that complies with all the relevant specifications and safety requirements. Basson pointed out that legislation makes it compulsory for switchboard manufacturers to comply with the revised 'Code of Practise - SABS 0142-1' from 1 January 2003, which means that manufacturers who supply sub-standard equipment have very little time to get their house in order. RBF's range of panels meet all the new requirements already.
Basson concluded by saying that RBF is proudly South African, and that the company's products can compete with confidence against other international manufacturers.
Johan Basson, RBF Technology
011 493 6700
[email protected]
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