Contribution
The chemical industry in South Africa contributes significantly to industrial development, job creation, and technological advancements. From pioneers in the energy sector that have innovatively addressed fuel requirements and the need for adaptation and transformation, to pharmaceuticals and medicinal advancements, South Africa has both the infrastructure, the skill, and an abundance of natural resources. This continuously reaffirms South Africa’s position as a global player, and having the best valves for chemicals ensures efficient advancements in research and development.
Best Valves for Chemicals
The simple design and low-profile disk provide minimal obstruction to flow, resulting in lower pressure drops, optimizing energy efficiency and reducing operational costs.
Their ability to handle a wide range of chemical fluids while maintaining leak-tight shut-off and reliable control positions makes them suitable for isolating and regulating flow and maintaining process integrity while meeting the industry’s stringent safety and operational requirements.
The ball valve has exceptional shut-off capabilities and chemical compatibility due to its spherical ball with a bore through it. This provides a straight-line flow path when open, reducing turbulence and pressure drop, making it ideal for applications requiring efficient flow control.
Corrosion-resistant options like stainless steel, brass, and PTFE ensures compatibility with a diverse array of chemical substances, safeguarding against corrosion and contamination risks.
Check valves prevent backflow and safeguard system integrity due to the design which ensures that flow can only occur in one direction This prevents the reversal of chemical fluids that could lead to cross-contamination or equipment damage, maintaining the purity of substances.
Ductile iron, stainless steel, or PTFE material ensure compatibility with a wide range of chemicals, enhancing their suitability for diverse applications within the chemical industry and conforming to strict compliance, safety and quality standards.
Top Chemicals Produced In South Africa
The chemical industry is very tightly connected with the manufacturing industry, accounting for over 25% of their sales, according to the Chemical and Allied Industries Association. With local access to raw materials, rising demand for biodegradable solutions, and rising demand for agrochemicals, the industry has a notable impact on the local economy.
Synthetic Fuels (Fischer-Tropsch Liquids)
Sasol has been a global leader in synthetic fuels, accounting for around 25% of the global production of synthetic fuels. This due to in part to its advanced coal-to-liquid (CTL) and gas-to-liquids (GTL) technology. CTL involves converting coal into synthetic fuels like gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuel technologies.
Plastics and Polymers
Polymers and plastics contribute 1.2% to the national GDP and are used in packaging, building, construction and the automotive industries, as well as textile, electrical, electronic, mechanical engineering, and agricultural industries. The versatility of polymers lies in their ability to be tailored to specific needs, whether it’s creating lightweight and durable materials for aerospace, or designing flexible and biocompatible polymers for medical implants.
Fertilizers and Agrochemicals
Food security and agricultural productivity are made possible by the use of phosphate rock mining, which is the foundation of phosphoric acid and fertilizer production. Companies like Omnia and Foskor, which produce 70% of the nations phosphoric acid, have established themselves as major contributors to this subsector, aiding in the growth of the nation’s agricultural output.
Specialty Chemicals
Speciality chemicals fuel growth in areas such as personal care, electronics, and industrial processes, and contribute 1.4% to the national GDP Manufacturing and production includes products that focus on home care, lubricants, rail, oleochemicals and mineral oils, coating and construction, polymers, sanitisers and disinfectants and road construction.
Pharmaceuticals
The pharmaceutical industry in South Africa holds vital support to the nation’s healthcare system, ensuring access to critical medicines and healthcare solutions. Its importance is underscored by its GDP value, which contributes to around 1%. These life-changing medicines include ARV’s, vaccines, generic medicines, biopharmaceuticals, and nutritional supplements.
