The latest issue of the Sassda Stainless Steel Magazine is here, and it’s packed with industry insight, technical expertise and forward-looking perspectives shaping the future of stainless steel in South Africa and beyond!
ISSUE 2 2026
DIGGING DEEPER INTO DEMAND
MINING STRENGTH Stainless Future
CASE STUDY: Passive Layer. Active Risk
Contents
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Demand Driver: Mining Mining Stainless Steel Demand Africa Market Intelligence Congo: Opportunity, Infrastructure and the Next Frontier for Stainless Steel Growth New Member Profile Foct Forward: Engineering Growth Through Stainless Steel Sassda News Technical consultancy to strengthen industry competitiveness Sassda News Skills Development Central to Stainless Steel Industry Growth Member News Sassda’s Western Cape Golf Day Scores a Hole in One
Industry Perspective Building a Stronger Future for South Africa’s Stainless Steel Industry GPS Roundup Market Intelligence to Boost Business Growth State of the Stainless Steel Nation Rebuilding Local Strength: How Stainless Steel Localisation Could Reshape South African Manufacturing Professional Profile Engineering Perspective Meets Industry Agility Technical Case Study Passive Layer, Active Risk: Why Coastal Stainless Steel Failures Start in the Workshop Demand Driver: Mining Supporting SA Mining Where Performance Matters Most Demand Driver: Mining From Mine Site to Export Market: How Stainless Steel is Supporting South African Mining and Industrial Growth
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Adverts • Fastenright • NDE • Sassda
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perspective
Contact us
TELEPHONE NUMBER 011 883 0119
EMAIL info@sassda.co.za WEBSITE www.sassda.co.za
Sassda
MICHEL BASSON Executive Director michel@sassda.co.za
CALLUM SUTHERLAND Members & Communication callum@sassda.co.za MANKABE MORE Education & Training mankabe@sassda.co.za
A recurring theme throughout these discussions was localisation and the role it can play in rebuilding industrial capability, supporting local manufacturers and positioning South Africa’s stainless steel sector more competitively for future growth. In this issue of the magazine, readers will therefore notice several articles focused on localisation initiatives currently being explored across sectors such as hollowware manufacturing, food processing equipment, packaging systems and specialised industrial components. Together, these projects reflect a broader strategic drive aimed at strengthening local value addition and creating more sustainable industrial opportunities for the future. Strengthened capacity However, the reality is that South Africa’s stainless steel industry continues to operate within a challenging environment shaped by slow economic growth, rising global competition, de-industrialisation pressures and changing international trade dynamics. Yet despite these realities, I remain convinced that significant opportunities still exist if we are prepared to adapt, collaborate and think differently about growth. During a recent Sassda Main Committee meeting, we reflected extensively on the future direction of South Africa’s stainless steel industry and the strategic interventions required to strengthen local manufacturing capability in an increasingly competitive global environment. Building a Stronger Future for South Africa’s Stainless Steel Industry
TEBOGO NKWE Market Intelligence & Lobbying Tebogo@sassda.co.za KIM STEVENS Events, Email Marketing and Website kstevens@sassda.co.za
LUISE ALLEMANN Content, Social Media and the Stainless Steel Magazine luise@mediaink.co.za
JOSE HERON Accounts jose@sassda.co.za
The Stainless steel magazine is published quarterly and is distributed to stockists, distributors, fabricators, specifiers, consulting engineers, architects, mining, petrochemical and chemical industries, food beverage and pharmaceutical industries, consumer outlets, end-users, educational institutes and provincial and government departments. Sassda makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the contents of its publications, but no warranty is made as to such accuracy and no responsibility will be borne by the publisher or Sassda for the consequences of any actions based on information so published. All opinions, views and expressions contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the management of Sassda. The contents of this publication enjoy positive protection under the Copyright Act and therefore copyright thereof is expressly reserved. Any copying, publication and distribution of part or whole of the publication is prohibited unless consent is granted by Sassda.
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At Sassda, much of our focus during 2025 therefore involved preparing for this next phase by strengthening our internal capabilities, expanding our technical support structures and aligning our activities more closely with the strategic priorities identified earlier this year. One of the biggest realities we have had to confront is that the South African market alone is simply not large enough to sustain long-term growth for the local stainless steel industry. While localisation and stimulating local demand remain critically important, we also need to position ourselves far more aggressively towards export markets and regional manufacturing opportunities. This shift in thinking is already influencing many of the projects and initiatives we are currently driving. A strong example is the hollowware initiative currently under investigation in partnership with automotive manufacturers in the Eastern Cape. As the global transition towards electric vehicles disrupts traditional automotive component manufacturing, several local companies with advanced presswork capability are now looking to diversify into new manufacturing sectors. At the same time, South Africa imports more than 20 000 t of hollowware products annually, much of it at
customs values that raise serious concerns regarding dumping and unfair competition. If we can successfully localise even a portion of this market, the potential benefits for local stainless steel consumption, industrial capability and job creation could be substantial. Significant local expertise These projects reinforce an important point. South Africa still possesses significant technical expertise, manufacturing skill and industrial capability. In many cases, the challenge is not a lack of ability but rather creating the right environment for local manufacturers to compete fairly and participate more effectively within global supply chains. This is why issues such as anti-dumping measures, localisation support and technical competitiveness remain so important. At the same time, we also recognise that long-term competitiveness increasingly depends on technical compliance, certification and operational excellence. As a result, Sassda has expanded its consultancy and technical support services to assist members with welding quality systems, ISO 3834 implementation, ISO 9000 pre-audits and broader quality assurance support. The response from industry has been encouraging, with growing recognition that international customers expect manufacturers to demonstrate not only technical capability, but also internationally recognised systems, standards and process discipline. We have also expanded our technical knowledge base significantly through the development of new publications and practical guidance documents covering coastal applications, mining applications and architectural stainless steel use. These initiatives are aimed at strengthening industry knowledge while helping prevent avoidable failures caused not by the stainless steel material itself, but by poor fabrication practices or incorrect application. Alongside this, Sassda is strengthening its market intelligence capability and expanding its communication footprint across Africa. Our planned African market newsletter will provide members with improved access to project information, regional opportunities and market intelligence outside South Africa. Ultimately, the future of the South African stainless steel industry will depend on our ability to remain resilient, adaptable and globally competitive. There are undoubtedly challenges ahead. Funding pressures, de-industrialisation and low-cost imports remain significant concerns. However, there are also clear opportunities emerging around localisation, regional manufacturing support, export growth and technical specialisation. At Sassda, we remain optimistic about the future of the industry. The key now is to continue building momentum, strengthening collaboration and positioning South African stainless steel manufacturers to compete successfully both locally and internationally.
Michel Basson, Sassda Executive Director
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gps roundup
Market Intelligence to Boost Business Growth Welcome to the highlights edition of the Sassda GPS eNewsletter, your go-to source for key developments shaping South Africa’s business, industrial, and economic landscape. Each month we distribute this popular market intelligence aggregator to an exclusive database of members and associates. This selection of the best articles from the last quarter, aims to extend access to this quality content by prioritising the top stories from the latest issues…
Rail master plan outlines R2 trillion vision Government’s long-term rail master plan is set to cost nearly R2 trillion over the next 30 years, reflecting the scale of ambition to modernise South Africa’s freight and passenger networks. The plan focuses on revitalising rail infrastructure, improving logistics efficiency and reducing pressure on road transport... Read more
Transnet Opens Bids for 25-Year Cape Town Liquid Bulk Terminal Concession Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has issued a request for proposals to appoint a private operator for a liquid bulk terminal at the Port of Cape Town under a 25-year concession agreement. The project includes the financing, operation, refurbishment and possible expansion of the existing brownfield facility, which is aimed at strengthening bunkering services, improving infrastructure efficiency and supporting regional fuel supply... Read more
Steel import duties raise supply concerns
New import duties on certain steel products are raising concerns about potential supply constraints and rising costs for downstream industries. While aimed at protecting local producers, the measures may have unintended consequences for construction and manufacturing… Read more
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Solar industry warns against proposed blanket solar tax The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) has cautioned against the introduction of a broad solar import tax, warning that poorly targeted measures could slow renewable energy adoption, raise costs for businesses and households, and undermine the country’s energy transition goals. The industry body argues that while localisation remains important, policy interventions should support long- term industry growth without constraining solar deployment at a time of ongoing energy security concerns.... Read more
R20bn Cape airport boom set to lift Western Cape aviation capacity More than R20-billion in airport investment is poised to reshape Cape Town’s aviation landscape, with ACSA planning an estimated R11.3-billion upgrade of Cape Town International Airport while the privately owned Cape Winelands Airport prepares for an R8-billion to R10-billion development near Durbanville. The projects aim to support rising passenger demand, improve airport capacity and unlock broader regional economic activity... Read more
Smelter shutdown risk highlights energy crisis Another smelter is threatening shutdown due to crippling electricity prices, underscoring ongoing pressure on energy- intensive industries. High costs and supply challenges continue to impact production and competitiveness, raising concerns about job losses and industrial decline..... Read more
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Major automotive investment planned A leading Indian company has announced a R600 billion upgrade plan for its South African manufacturing facility. The investment is expected to boost local production capacity, support job creation and strengthen the country’s automotive sector…. Read more
UAE firm eyes rail operations in South Africa
A United Arab Emirates-based company has unveiled a R2.8 billion plan to operate trains in South Africa, signalling growing private sector interest in the country’s rail network. The move aligns with broader efforts to improve efficiency and attract investment into logistics infrastructure…… Read more
AfCFTA shifts toward operational trade system The African Continental Free Trade Area is transitioning from policy framework to practical implementation, although persistent frictions remain. Progress in optimizing trade systems is expected to unlock new regional opportunities, despite ongoing logistical and regulatory challenges…… Read more
Massive private investment drive announced Government has announced a major private investment drive aimed at unlocking infrastructure development and boosting economic growth. The initiative focuses on creating an enabling environment for investors while accelerating project rollout across key sectors..… Read more
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state of the stainless steel nation
Rebuilding Local Strength: How Stainless Steel Localisation Could Reshape South African Manufacturing
For South Africa’s stainless steel industry, localisation is no longer simply a policy discussion or a theoretical economic ambition. Increasingly, it is becoming a practical industrial strategy focused on rebuilding manufacturing capability, creating jobs, strengthening supply chains and positioning local companies more competitively within global markets. Across several sectors, including hollowware, packaging equipment, food processing technology and specialised industrial components, new opportunities are emerging to bring manufacturing activity back onto South African soil using local stainless steel, local skills and local manufacturing expertise.
For Sassda, these developments form part of a broader strategic drive to strengthen the long-term sustainability of South Africa’s stainless steel value chain while unlocking new industrial growth opportunities. Localisation Momentum At the beginning of 2026, Sassda embarked on a focused localisation strategy aimed at steering the industry towards improved manufacturing competitiveness and stronger export participation. The strategy is built around a relatively simple but increasingly important principle: South Africa possesses significant manufacturing skill, technical expertise and stainless steel processing capability, but far more value can still be unlocked by localising products and components that are currently imported into the country. At the same time, global supply chains are changing. International original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are increasingly looking for regional manufacturing
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“Between 15 000 t and 20 000 t of hollowware products are imported into South Africa annually, with more than 96% originating from China, highlighting the scale of the localisation opportunity.” For Sassda, the concern extends beyond import volumes alone. The hollowware industry historically represented an important area of local stainless steel value addition, manufacturing activity and employment creation. Its decline has contributed to significant de-industrialisation within the sector. At the same time, global changes within the automotive industry are creating unexpected new opportunities. As the global shift towards electric vehicles places pressure on traditional automotive component manufacturers involved in exhaust systems and catalytic converters, several South African automotive suppliers are now exploring diversification into other manufacturing sectors that can utilise their advanced presswork technologies and production capabilities. Sassda is currently working with major automotive component manufacturers to investigate whether this world-class automotive manufacturing expertise can be applied to local stainless steel hollowware production. The opportunity could be substantial. Industry estimates suggest that successfully rebuilding even part of the local hollowware sector could potentially localise up to 20 000 t of stainless steel consumption annually while creating significant employment opportunities across skilled, semi-skilled and lower-skilled labour categories.
partners capable of reducing logistics costs, shortening supply chains and improving responsiveness to African and Southern Hemisphere markets. This creates a unique opportunity for South Africa’s stainless steel sector. A recent example involved a European OEM seeking local manufacturing partners capable of producing specialised stainless steel components for packaging equipment. The objective was to reduce the cost and complexity associated with transporting European- manufactured components and spare parts into African markets. Sassda facilitated discussions between the OEM and local member companies with the required capabilities, with the engagement reportedly progressing positively into supplier vetting processes. Beyond the immediate project itself, the initiative highlights the growing role South Africa can potentially play as a regional manufacturing and support base for international companies. Manufacturing Revival Perhaps one of the strongest examples of localisation potential currently under discussion lies within the hollowware and catering products sector. South Africa was once a significant producer of stainless steel hollowware products, including pots, pans and catering equipment. However, over the past two decades, the sector has experienced severe decline under pressure from low- cost imported products, particularly from China. According to industry estimates, between 15 000 t and 20 000 t of catering and hollowware products are imported into South Africa annually, with China accounting for more than 96% of total imports.
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“Rebuilding even half of the local hollowware market could create more than 30 000 sustainable jobs while significantly increasing local stainless steel consumption.” Importantly, hollowware manufacturing is also viewed as particularly labour intensive and capable of supporting large-scale job creation. Sassda estimates that reclaiming even half of the current market could potentially create more than 30 000 sustainable jobs. Skills And Scale One of the key themes emerging across these localisation initiatives is the importance of technical capability and manufacturing expertise. South Africa’s stainless steel sector continues to possess highly skilled fabricators, welders, manufacturers and technical specialists capable of producing sophisticated industrial products and components. In another localisation initiative, Sassda assisted in facilitating the potential local manufacture of specialised food processing components linked to technology originally developed in South Africa before later being acquired by international companies. Although the equipment had continued to be manufactured overseas, much of the technical knowledge and support infrastructure remained rooted locally. One of the primary challenges involved material specifications requiring stainless steel grades not readily available within South Africa. Sassda provided technical support to adapt these specifications to locally available stainless steel materials, opening the door for local production opportunities. The initiative also demonstrated the growing role advanced stainless steel grades can play in sectors such as food processing, packaging equipment and specialised industrial applications where corrosion resistance, hygiene and durability are critical. Importantly, localisation does not only benefit manufacturers themselves. When components, products or systems are manufactured locally, the economic impact extends throughout the broader stainless steel value chain, including material suppliers, welding consumable suppliers, abrasives suppliers, logistics providers and technical service companies. It also exposes local companies to international standards, new technologies and export-focused manufacturing disciplines. Competitive Pressures While the opportunities are significant, the challenges remain equally real.
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state of the stainless steel nation
In many respects, the current moment represents an important strategic crossroads for the stainless steel industry. Global supply chains are being reassessed. International manufacturers are seeking more agile regional production partners. Industrial resilience is becoming increasingly important. At the same time, South Africa retains many of the technical capabilities, manufacturing skills and industrial infrastructure required to participate meaningfully in these shifts. The challenge now lies in translating that potential into sustained industrial growth. If successful, localisation within the stainless steel sector could ultimately help drive increased local stainless steel consumption, stronger manufacturing capability, export growth and large-scale employment creation while reinforcing South Africa’s reputation for technical manufacturing excellence.
Sassda continues to express concern around anti- competitive import pressures and unfair customs values associated with certain imported stainless steel products. Analysis of recent import data indicates that hollowware imports from China entered South Africa during 2024 and 2025 at customs values averaging approximately R22/kg, compared with approximately R103/kg for imports from India. When compared against the base material costs associated with common stainless steel grades such as 430, 304 and 316, the pricing disparities raise serious concerns regarding fair competition within the local market. While Sassda does not support blanket tariffs across all stainless steel imports, the organisation believes stronger enforcement against anti-competitive practices remains essential to protecting local manufacturing capability. At the same time, support mechanisms such as the Localisation Support Fund, engagement with the International Trade Administration Commission of South Africa (ITAC) and strategic cooperation with government and retailers are viewed as increasingly important components in rebuilding industrial capacity. Retailer participation is expected to play a particularly important role within the hollowware sector, where large retail procurement decisions could significantly influence the viability of local production. Building Forward For Sassda, the broader significance of localisation extends well beyond import replacement alone. The organisation sees localisation as an opportunity to rebuild manufacturing confidence, stimulate industrial investment and strengthen South Africa’s role within global manufacturing supply chains.
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professional profile
As Operations Director at NDE Andrew Campbell brings an unusual blend of engineering training, entrepreneurial thinking and real-world project experience to the stainless steel sector. Having started his career in renewable energy, project finance and infrastructure development, he entered the metals industry during one of its most turbulent periods, navigating market volatility, Covid-19 disruption and rapidly shifting global demand conditions. Today, Campbell plays a central role in helping NDE support customers across the stainless steel value chain, while offering thoughtful insight into material innovation, industry collaboration and the long- term future of South African manufacturing… Please share a bit about your background, including where you grew up, your schooling and tertiary education and how you first entered the stainless steel industry. I went to school in Johannesburg and then attended university in Cape Town, where I studied Mechanical Engineering. During my third year at UCT, I realised I might need to pivot towards something more orientated toward the business and project management side of engineering. Once I completed my undergraduate engineering degree, I therefore pursued a postgraduate degree in Entrepreneurship. I started as an intern at a venture capital fund, which placed me within its online pharmacy startup. I then spent five years in the solar industry working in project finance, mergers and acquisitions, and contract management before eventually joining NDE. It has certainly been an unusual path! Engineering Perspective Meets Industry Agility
Looking back on your career so far, what are some of the key projects, roles or experiences that challenged you the most, while also helping to shape your technical skills, leadership approach and career growth? During my time at Sonnedix, the solar IPP, we had to submit incredibly complicated bids to the Department of Energy as part of the REIPPPP programme. During these periods, we often had extremely intense weeks of negotiations with banks, developers, EPCs and other stakeholders. Sixteen- hour days leading up to bid submissions or financial close were common. I was also involved in mergers and acquisitions deals, which were always challenging because of the need to balance expectations across all parties to get transactions
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over the line. In addition, I worked alongside our EPC contractor during the construction of a solar power plant in the Northern Cape. It was a massive infrastructure project with tight timelines and required extensive co-ordination and teamwork across stakeholders. Then I entered the stainless steel industry. I started at NDE in 2019, which was already a difficult year for the industry, before we moved straight into Covid-19 lockdowns, followed by a frenetic period driven by commodity prices and post-pandemic demand. The metals industry is a wild place. I often ask colleagues if this is the worst it has ever been, and they usually just smile and show me their battle scars. We are part of an incredibly resilient industry. All of these experiences contributed to developing my skills. At the time, it is not always enjoyable, but looking back I am grateful to have experienced them. Especially when you are starting out and still have the energy and flexibility to pull all-nighters and travel extensively to get things done. These environments also teach you the value of teamwork, diverse skill sets and camaraderie during difficult periods. I would particularly highlight the opportunity I have had to work with experienced and exceptionally talented people across different industries. That has fundamentally shaped, and continues to shape, my career. “The metals industry is a wild place. I often ask colleagues if this is the worst it has ever been, and they usually just smile and show me their battle scars.“ What would you say are the biggest lessons you’ve learnt so far, both professionally and personally? Professionally, I would highlight the following: • The power and importance of relationships continue to grow. • Sometimes tasks can feel overwhelming, but breaking them down into smaller steps helps. • Lean into your team and genuinely listen to what people have to say. Surround yourself with good people and you will get good ideas and valuable input. • Some decisions need to be made quickly, but most important decisions do not. • You will never have complete certainty, so do not wait for it. • An honest and clear narrative around what and why you are doing something is incredibly important because it helps bring people along with you.
Personally: • I have come to deeply appreciate the value of role models and experienced people who are generous with their time and knowledge. • Since entering the stainless steel industry, I have realised how much I admire the work our industry does. As a semi-successful, or perhaps failed, engineer depending on your perspective, I remain constantly impressed by what our customers and the industry achieve. • Often, when you are honest and approachable as a person or company, the industry responds in the same way. • Although stressful periods are never enjoyable at the time, they often teach you a great deal about yourself and your resilience. • Keep your sense of humour. In serious situations, where everyone already understands the gravity of the moment, there is often no need to add further tension.
What is your current role at NDE and what does a typical day look like for you?
I am the Operations Director for NDE. It is a highly varied role that moves across most aspects of the business. Essentially, I try to determine how we can assist our branches in solving pressing issues while also finding ways to empower them to service customers more effectively. This ranges from sales and procurement to warehousing, administration and finance. The best way I can describe it is acting as the grease between the gears. Personally, my biggest passion within all of this is the reporting and data side of the business. Given NDE’s role in supplying stainless steel, aluminium and corrosion-resistant solutions, how do you see the company helping customers make the right material choices, improve quality and support more efficient project delivery across the local stainless steel value chain? If I am completely honest, I do not think distributors necessarily have significant sway in material selection. Of course, we are always happy to assist where needed and our company has extensive knowledge and experience to offer. However, I believe the industry, and most engineers, already understand the role these materials can play. They may not know every specific grade, but they certainly understand the broader advantages and lifecycle considerations. A topical example would be SpaceX and Starship, where the outer shell now comprises 300-series stainless steel. The material was always recognised as a viable material for spacecraft, yet Starship was the first major example of its use in this way. When you hear the design story behind it, much of it comes down to engineers being given the
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professional profile
As a result, it becomes difficult to get all stakeholders aligned on the value of a specification change, and the original design material is often retained. The solution lies in creating better forums and neutral spaces where successful material choices and case studies can be openly discussed and understood, despite commercial sensitivities. Interestingly, some of the most exciting innovations often come from smaller fabricators and manufacturers whose focus is on delivering a working solution or product rather than executing against a predefined design. They sometimes have the flexibility to make bold decisions around switching to specialised stainless steel or aluminium grades that ultimately improve product performance. Taking a broader view, what do you see as the biggest challenges currently facing the South African stainless steel industry, and what practical or innovative solutions could help address them? Beyond the obvious demand challenges facing the industry, driven by both policy and global shocks, I believe one of the biggest issues is the training and development of artisans. I would not place blame on any single area. It has simply become increasingly difficult for specialised centres, private companies and public institutions to sustain these programmes independently. In my view, this presents a major opportunity for organisations such as Sassda to step in. There is potential to build a funding pool that could support artisan training schools for boilermakers, fitters, turners and related trades. This would not only benefit South Africa’s manufacturing sector but could also support contributing members through structured training initiatives if implemented correctly. Which developments or innovations in stainless steel are you most excited about at the moment, and which industries or sectors do you believe hold the greatest future potential for stainless steel applications? I find the work our customers do incredibly interesting and exciting. I am constantly impressed by what the industry is capable of producing. In terms of future sectors, I believe developments in pharmaceuticals, particularly those being accelerated through AI-assisted breakthroughs, will have significant downstream impacts on manufacturing capacity requirements. We are already seeing some of this within the GLP-1 inhibitor market. I am also hopeful that South Africa’s mining industry could benefit from a long-term revival linked to copper and platinum group metals demand associated with computing and electric vehicle markets.
freedom to try something new, combined with a decision- maker willing to shoulder the risk of moving away from tradition. In our local market, engineers and fabricators should ideally have more flexibility to change material designs in pursuit of longer design lives and improved performance. Unfortunately, many material decisions are still driven primarily by immediate cost, material accessibility and speed. In an uncertain world, it can be difficult to motivate for longer lifecycle considerations. For NDE and the broader distributor network, material availability and pricing remain important factors. When projects move into more specialised material choices, stock is often not readily available locally. However, customers and end-users are not always aware of how quickly we can source specialised grades internationally, and increasingly through dynamic local suppliers as well. “In our local market, engineers and fabricators should ideally have more flexibility to change material designs in pursuit of longer design lives and improved performance.” From your experience, how important are skills development and technical expertise to the successful application of stainless steel in key industrial projects? Are there any specific skills gaps or growth opportunities you believe the industry should be focusing on? Again, I do not necessarily believe this is purely a skills issue. In many cases, it is more of a structural challenge within the industry and the way turnkey projects are broken up and contracted out. There are often too many layers between contract initiators, design houses, fabricators and the distribution network that ultimately has to source and stock material. Material specification changes frequently require buy-in across this entire chain. For example, a particular steel grade may initially be specified for a chemical pipeline. Someone within the chain may realise that switching to stainless steel could significantly improve the operating lifecycle, but the material cost would be higher. That contractor may suggest the change to the engineering house, which then has to motivate it to the client. This can lead to a larger capital outlay requiring approval from investment committees and other decision-making structures. In many instances, maintenance contracts and teams are also separate from capital equipment teams, which adds another layer of complexity.
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technical case study
South Africa’s coastline remains one of the harshest environments in the world for stainless steel applications, yet industry experts argue that most failures blamed on material selection are, in fact, rooted in poor fabrication practices. Sassda has just launched a new technical guide on stainless steel passivity in South African coastal environments which urges engineers, fabricators and specifiers to rethink the way corrosion risk is assessed and managed. Passive Layer, Active Risk: Why Coastal Stainless Steel Failures Start in the Workshop
This has significant implications for commonly specified grades such as 304 and 316 stainless steel. Grade 304, which lacks molybdenum, has limited resistance to chloride attack and is generally regarded as unsuitable for coastal applications close to the sea. Grade 316 performs considerably better due to the presence of molybdenum, which improves pitting resistance and supports re-passivation of damaged areas. Yet the guide stresses that 316’s coastal performance is highly dependent on fabrication quality. Correctly fabricated components can provide excellent service life, while poorly fabricated systems may fail rapidly and visibly. Duplex stainless steels offer the highest level of corrosion resistance owing to their elevated chromium, molybdenum and nitrogen content. Nitrogen, in particular, significantly improves re-passivation kinetics and localised
At the centre of the discussion is the passive layer, the ultra-thin chromium-rich oxide film that gives stainless steel its corrosion resistance. While the alloy itself may contain as much as 70% to 80% iron, it is this microscopic passive layer that prevents corrosion by blocking metal dissolution and continuously reforming in the presence of oxygen. However, in coastal South African conditions, maintaining that passive layer is far more difficult than many project teams appreciate. The combination of high chloride exposure, strong prevailing winds, warm temperatures and daily wet-dry cycles creates an aggressive environment where even small fabrication defects can rapidly develop into visible corrosion. According to the guide, these conditions expose “fabrication sins” within months rather than years.
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corrosion resistance. Nevertheless, the report cautions that even duplex grades are not immune to poor workmanship.
Fabrication flaws The guide identifies fabrication-induced corrosion as the dominant cause of premature stainless steel failures along the South African coast. Among the most common problems are heat tint left after welding, inadequate pickling and passivation, carbon steel contamination, rough grinding and the creation of crevices during fabrication or installation. Heat tint, for example, creates chromium-depleted zones with weakened corrosion resistance. If not properly removed, these areas can become initiation points for pitting and crevice corrosion. Likewise, carbon steel contamination from shared workshop tools or grinding dust can establish local corrosion cells that attack the stainless steel surface. coast is not a failure of metallurgy, but rather a failure of fabrication discipline.” “Most stainless steel corrosion seen along the South African
The report argues that many corrosion failures incorrectly attributed to material grade selection are actually workmanship-related. A key diagnostic indicator is corrosion patterning. Corrosion concentrated around welds, fasteners or isolated surface areas generally points to fabrication or contamination issues rather than alloy inadequacy. Uniform pitting across all surfaces is more indicative of a genuine material-environment mismatch.
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technical case study
piping systems commonly fail at heat-affected weld zones or dead-leg sections where oxygen depletion occurs. Material selection remains important, but the report stresses that fabrication quality ultimately determines performance. For applications within 500 m of the coast, duplex stainless steels are strongly preferred, while 316 may still be acceptable under carefully controlled fabrication conditions. Grade 304 is generally considered unsuitable in these zones. Further inland, exposure severity decreases, allowing broader use of 316 and, in some cases, 304. However, the report warns that poor fabrication practices can undermine the performance of any alloy grade regardless of theoretical corrosion resistance. The publication concludes that the stainless steel industry must shift its focus away from simply upgrading alloys whenever corrosion appears. While specifying more noble and expensive materials may sometimes mask underlying problems, it does not necessarily solve them. Instead, the report argues that South Africa’s coastal corrosion challenge should be approached through disciplined fabrication, proper surface treatment and a deeper understanding of passive layer behaviour. In practical terms, the message to the industry is clear: stainless steel success on the South African coast depends less on what alloy is selected and more on how that alloy is handled before it reaches service.
To address these risks, the guide proposes a strict fabrication checklist for coastal applications. Recommended controls include dedicated stainless steel- only tooling, controlled welding procedures, complete heat tint removal, mandatory pickling and passivation, smooth low-roughness surface finishes and rigorous final cleaning before handover. “In South African coastal environments, stainless steel succeeds or fails at the passive layer.” Common problems The guide also highlights recurring problems in common coastal applications. Architectural balustrades often experience rust bleeding from welds and tea staining on horizontal rails due to inadequate weld finishing and poor drainage design. Tanks frequently suffer pitting along weld seams or shell-to-floor junctions where poor surface preparation and insufficient cleaning allow chlorides to concentrate. Fasteners are especially vulnerable when incorrect materials or contaminated components are used, while
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demand driver mining
Stainless Steel: Supporting SA Mining Where Performance Matters Most
From deep-level gold shafts to mineral processing plants handling aggressive slurries and acidic water, stainless steel has become a critical material in South Africa’s mining industry. While carbon steel continues to dominate large structural applications, stainless steel is increasingly being specified where corrosion resistance, durability, safety, and lifecycle performance matter most. As mining companies face rising maintenance costs, environmental pressures, and the need for operational reliability, stainless steel is proving its value across the mining value chain…
steel entirely, but rather to provide targeted performance advantages in applications where failure, downtime, or contamination carry significant operational and financial consequences. Mining conditions in South Africa are particularly demanding. Acid mine drainage, chloride-rich water, chemically aggressive slurries, and high underground humidity all contribute to accelerated material degradation. At the same time, many operations are
South Africa’s mining sector remains one of the country’s most important economic drivers, operating in some of the harshest industrial conditions in the world. From deep-level gold and platinum mines to large-scale chrome, manganese, and iron ore operations, the industry demands materials capable of withstanding corrosion, abrasion, moisture, chemicals, and continuous heavy-duty operation. Within this environment, stainless steel has become an essential enabling material. Its role is not to replace carbon
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demand driver mining
located in remote areas where maintenance shutdowns can be extremely costly. Under these conditions, stainless steel offers several important advantages, including corrosion resistance, improved abrasion performance, lower maintenance requirements, and extended service life. Although the initial material cost may be higher than conventional carbon steel, the long-term lifecycle savings often justify the investment. “In mining, stainless steel is not a luxury material. It is a strategic investment in uptime, safety, and long-term operational performance.” Corrosive capability One of the largest areas of stainless steel use in mining is within mineral processing plants. These facilities operate continuously and handle highly abrasive and corrosive slurries that rapidly damage conventional materials. Stainless steel is commonly used in slurry pipelines, pumps, impellers, flotation cells, screens, cyclones, filters, and reagent tanks. In these applications, material reliability directly affects production continuity and maintenance schedules. Several stainless steel grades are widely used in South African mining applications. Austenitic grades such as 304 and 304L are typically specified for general corrosion resistance, while 316 and 316L offer improved resistance in chloride-rich and acidic environments. Duplex stainless steels such as 2205 provide higher strength and enhanced corrosion resistance for more aggressive duties. South Africa has also played an important role in the development and adoption of utility ferritic stainless steels, particularly 3CR12. Originally developed locally for demanding industrial environments, 3CR12 has become widely used in mining applications where moderate corrosion resistance and cost efficiency are required Underground mining infrastructure represents another significant area of stainless steel use. In deep-level operations, where safety and reliability are critical, stainless steel is frequently specified for service water piping, compressed air systems, cooling infrastructure, dewatering systems, handrails, gratings, cable trays, and ventilation components. Corrosion-related failures underground can create serious operational and safety risks. Stainless steel helps reduce these risks while also lowering maintenance demands over the life of the mine. A variety of applications Water management remains a particularly important challenge for South African mines. Dewatering
systems often operate continuously in acidic and abrasive environments, placing severe strain on pumps, valves, and pipelines. Stainless steel, especially 316 and duplex grades, is increasingly used in pump internals, valve bodies, and dewatering pipelines to improve operational reliability and reduce downtime. In materials handling applications, stainless steel is used more selectively. While carbon steel continues to dominate major structures, grades such as 3CR12 are commonly used in ore chutes, transfer points, hopper liners, and screens where abrasion and corrosion occur simultaneously. Certain stainless steels also exhibit work-hardening properties under impact, improving wear performance over time. Environmental compliance is another growing driver of stainless steel use. Tailings systems, water treatment plants, acid neutralisation infrastructure, and remediation projects all require long-term resistance to corrosion and leakage risks. Stainless steel’s durability makes it well suited for these applications, particularly where infrastructure is expected to operate reliably for decades. As mining companies increasingly evaluate materials on total lifecycle cost rather than upfront purchase price alone, stainless steel continues to strengthen its position within the sector. Beyond operational performance, the material also supports local fabrication capability, maintenance industries, and South Africa’s broader stainless steel value chain. For the mining industry, stainless steel is no longer viewed simply as a premium material choice. In many critical applications, it has become an operational necessity.
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Issue 2 – 2026
demand driver mining
South Africa’s mining sector remains one of the country’s most strategically important industries, with operations spanning platinum group metals (PGMs), gold, chrome, manganese, coal, iron ore, and uranium. While mining continues to underpin large portions of the national economy, its influence extends far beyond raw mineral extraction. From Mine Site to Export Market: How Stainless Steel is Supporting South African Mining and Industrial Growth
Increasingly, the operational demands of modern mining are driving the growth of local stainless steel fabrication, engineering capability, and export potential. From slurry pipelines and flotation cells to modular process plants, underground infrastructure, and specialist wear-resistant components, stainless steel is playing an increasingly important role in supporting safer, more reliable, and more efficient mining operations. At the same time, South African fabricators and engineering companies are leveraging decades of mining expertise to develop products and capabilities that are finding relevance both locally and internationally. Although carbon steel still dominates many structural applications across mining, stainless steel has established itself as a key material wherever corrosion resistance, wear
performance, hygiene, safety, and long-term reliability are critical. Its use within mining is highly application specific. Stainless steel is not selected simply because it is corrosion resistant, but because it provides measurable operational value in environments where equipment failure or excessive maintenance directly impacts production continuity and operating cost. PGMs Driving Demand and Local Capability Platinum Group Metals (PGM) mining remains the single largest user of stainless steel in South Africa and is widely regarded as the strongest platform for stainless steel localisation and export development.
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Issue 2 – 2026
demand driver mining
Typical applications include: • Dewatering systems and pump stations • Underground service-water and cooling pipelines • Cyanide leach tanks and piping • Carbon-in-leach (CIL) and carbon-in-pulp (CIP) circuits • Underground walkways, ladders, and handrails These demanding operating conditions have also allowed South African manufacturers to develop specialised expertise in: • Underground piping systems • Modular pump stations • Safety-critical fabricated components • Refurbishment programmes for ageing mines Export opportunities exist for complete underground infrastructure packages, dewatering systems, and specialist stainless fabrications. Markets such as Ghana, Mali, and Tanzania are increasingly relevant because of expanding underground gold mining operations. South Africa’s decades of deep-level mining experience remain a major differentiator in international markets. Typical grades specified in gold mining include: • 304 / 304L for structural and general services • 316 / 316L in acidic and cyanide environments • 3CR12 for underground infrastructure and piping For deep-level operations, long service life and reduced maintenance are critical operational advantages. Chrome Mining Balancing Abrasion and Corrosion Chrome mining shares many similarities with PGM processing due to the abrasive nature of chrome slurries and wet processing systems. Reliability remains essential because most chrome concentrators operate continuously with limited tolerance for shutdowns.
Concentrated mainly within the Bushveld Mineral Complex across Limpopo, Rustenburg, and North West Province, these operations process highly abrasive and chemically aggressive slurries under continuous operating conditions.
Typical stainless steel applications include: • Flotation cells and thickeners • Slurry pipelines and launders • Pump casings, impellers, and shafts • Acid and reagent tanks • Tailings and return-water systems
The severe combination of abrasion, chlorides, acidic conditions, and moisture creates an environment where conventional materials deteriorate rapidly. Downtime in concentrator plants is extremely costly, making reliability a major operational priority. Since concentrator plants are highly site-specific, many components must also be custom designed and fabricated locally. This creates significant opportunities for South African engineering and manufacturing companies. Areas where local capability already exists include: • Pipe spooling and modular skid fabrication • Heavy-duty process equipment manufacturing • Stainless steel plate work and tank fabrication • On-site installation and maintenance services Many industry participants view PGMs as the anchor commodity capable of supporting a broader export-oriented stainless steel fabrication industry. Common stainless steel grades used in PGM operations include: • 304 / 304L for general plant equipment • 316 / 316L for improved chloride and acid resistance • 3CR12 for cost-effective corrosion resistance • Duplex 2205 for high-pressure pipelines and aggressive duties Export potential is also increasing as neighbouring mining economies such as Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo continue expanding mineral processing capacity. Gold Mining Supporting Specialist Expertise South Africa’s deep-level gold mining sector presents a different set of challenges due to its extensive underground infrastructure, heat, humidity, acidic mine water, and chemically aggressive processing conditions. Stainless steel plays an important role in supporting both safety and long-term infrastructure integrity underground.
Stainless steel applications include: • Concentrator plants • Slurry pipelines • Spiral concentrators and launders • Pump components • Tailings infrastructure
The combination of abrasion and corrosion creates severe wear conditions, particularly in wet handling areas. Chrome mining also creates opportunities for larger-scale repetitive fabrication work, allowing local manufacturers to benefit from economies of scale.
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