For the July Technology Evening, we had a better than expected turn out from our Vaal members. The event was sponsored by ASCO Numatics and presented by Riaan van der Walt.
Branch chairman Christiaan Steyn (right) thanks Riaan after the presentation.
Riaan ([email protected]) is a senior sales and management executive at ASCO Numatics with over 18 years of experience in the petrochemical, oil and gas, chemical, fertiliser and mining industries in South Africa and in Germany. The presentation introduced the audience to the latest technology in solenoid valves that are set to become standard in the petrochemical and other industries. These are low-power solenoid valves that have been designed for critical applications in the chemical, petrochemical and gas industries. The new design ensures a power consumption of 2 Watts per unit, therefore minimising losses and reducing operational running costs. This advantage results in an extended operational life for the solenoid valves and enhanced safety. The valves are supplied with IEC61508 functional safety certification as Ex ratings depending on the application. Riaan showed videos that illustrated the functionality of the valve and this was a highlight of the presentation. The second half of 2015 is definitely looking positive, as we intend to grow our membership and broaden our presence in the Vaal area.
SAIMC: From the office of the CEO SAIMC
SAIMC
The INSPIRE Conference 2026 brought industry and academia together to explore advances in automation, AI, mechatronics and engineering. It also marked a new direction for the SAIMC as it works to build future-ready engineering talent and strengthen South Africa’s automation industry.
Read more...SAIMC Durban takes to the skies SAIMC
SAIMC
SAIMC Durban members went behind the scenes at the ATNS facility at King Shaka International Airport. The visit offered a fascinating look at the sophisticated technology and highly trained people keeping South Africa’s skies safe.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban branch SAIMC
SAIMC
At the SAIMC Durban branch September 2026 technology meeting, Werner Das of SICK explored how deep learning is moving industrial machine vision beyond rule-based systems into practical, everyday quality control on the factory floor.
Read more...SAIMC: From the office of the COO SAIMC
SAIMC
The recognition of mechatronics and computer engineering has created both an opportunity and a responsibility. Recognition means little without participation, professional registration without professional conduct, and technical knowledge without the mentorship, implementation and measurable value that industry needs.
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
Hendrik Spies of SICK Automation Southern Africa presented at the SAIMC Johannesburg Technology Evening on 12 August 2026, covering the digital journey from condition monitoring to predictive maintenance.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Durban branch hosted S’yabonga Langa, systems performance engineer at eThekwini Electricity, who presented on applying substation automation to improve operational efficiency and service quality in modern power distribution networks.
Read more...SAIMC INSPIRE 2026 brings together industry, robotics and research
SAIMC
The inaugural SAIMC INSPIRE Conference will bring together the industrial automation, robotics and academic communities for two days of presentations, panel discussions and networking, and will explore developments in smart manufacturing, mining, robotics
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.