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efficient and precise as possible. We now have a system that can process high volumes while maintaining the specific grain sizes required for different industrial applications. The goal is to keep improving and expanding our capabilities to support more sectors in need of sustainable alternatives,” he says. Turning waste into a valuable resource As global industries move towards greener and more cost-effective solutions, the development of locally sourced, recycled blasting media could mark a turning point for South Africa’s stainless steel industry. Through its membership with Sassda, Pure Glass Media is positioned to educate, engage, and drive awareness within the sector, helping manufacturers and processors explore more sustainable and efficient surface preparation solutions. By collaborating with industry partners and leveraging innovative recycling technologies, Pure Glass Media and Reclite SA are paving the way for a more circular economy in industrial manufacturing - one where waste becomes a valuable resource, rather than a burden.
Applications in stainless steel and beyond While glass-based media is already well known in the stainless steel sector for its role in creating a clean, non- contaminated surface, the availability of locally produced media could encourage wider adoption. The angular shape of Reclite’s blasting media differentiates it from traditional glass beads; offering greater efficiency in surface profiling while maintaining a non-hazardous working environment for operators. Reclite SA MD Steffen Schröder says the key advantage of the company’s product, is that it does not embed contaminants into stainless steel surfaces - a common concern when using steel shot. The non-reactive nature of glass ensures that stainless steel surfaces remain corrosion- resistant, reducing the need for chemical passivation processes after blasting. “In stainless steel applications, one of the biggest concerns is contamination. Traditional steel shot, for example, can lead to microscopic deposits that increase the risk of corrosion. Our product eliminates that risk while maintaining the high-quality finish industries expect,” explains Schröder. As a result, the company’s product is already
in use by major industrial clients, including those in the chemical processing, food-grade manufacturing, and architectural sectors, where the aesthetics and longevity of stainless steel surfaces are critical. Future growth and expansion With South Africa’s industrial sector placing increasing emphasis on sustainability and cost efficiency, Pure Glass Media sees potential for further expansion, including into filtration media for swimming pools and industrial water treatment. The company is also exploring export opportunities, though its current focus remains on establishing a strong local market presence. “In the long run, we aim to make glass media a standard in the industry, rather than an alternative,” says Cousins. “By proving its effectiveness and economic benefits, we believe we can shift industry perceptions and contribute to a more sustainable manufacturing landscape.” Meanwhile, Reclite SA continues to refine its glass processing technology to further optimise production efficiency. According to Schröder, the company has developed specialised machinery that allows it to process large quantities of e-waste glass with minimal energy consumption, reinforcing its commitment to innovation in sustainable materials. “We’ve gone through several iterations of our glass processing equipment to make it as
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Issue 1 – 2025
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