Innovative R300 million PVC-O pipe factory in operation at the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone
THE Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone (RBIDZ) is very conscious of its mission of attracting investments and is focused on driving socio-economic development.
It also aims to be a catalyst for job creation and foreign direct investment, which is yielding positive results that can be evidenced by the projects taking shape on the ground.
In pursuit of this objective and guidance drawn from the Provincial Growth and Development Plans which is linked to the National Development Plan, the RBIDZ is doubling its efforts of attracting new investments into the Zone.
This is also evidenced by the investment enquiries showing interest in the key sectors of focus such as metals beneficiation, renewable energy, ICT (techno parks), port optimisation and agro-processing.
Presently the RBIDZ prides itself on being home to a R300 million PVC-O pipe plant - Sizabantu Piping Systems factory, which is a leader in the manufacturing and distribution of comprehensive range of high pressure PVC pipes and drainage solutions using Molecor’s proprietary technology. The factory is still in the process of commissioning some of its operational lines however it witnessed its first Molecor production in December 2016 and will soon officially open and be fully operational.
The factory’s target markets are the agricultural, civil and industrial sectors locally, as well as in southern Africa and the sub-Saharan region.
Plastic pipes come with many inherent advantages in comparison to other traditional materials. These include its non-corrosive properties, which enables a longer lifespan and unlike traditional metallic pipe, no cathodic protection is required.
Additional advantages include better hydraulic performance, lower pumping costs, and better surge or water hammer capabilities. Plastic pipe is a tried and tested product, well-suited for Africa and the infrastructure sector.
In addition, the demand for potable water in Africa is enormous and its user-friendly products will assist in speeding up the supply of much-needed reticulation systems, particularly in urban centres where the trend points to exponential expansion. This is due to rural communities increasingly migrating to towns and cities in search of better prospects. PVC-O pipes are proving to be a better cost effective alternative option, where large diameter and higher pressure ratings are required for bulk Sectorwater lines. Solution
PVC-O pipes are available in diameters of 110mm up to 800mm (with soon to be introduced 1000mm), in pressure rating up to 25 bar working pressure.
Another benefit is the reduction of water leaks that
result into less water wastage.
“Recognising all the industrial infrastructure on the ground nearing completion accompanied by the strengthened investment pipeline, the RBIDZ is adamant that this milestone will trigger a large flow of foreign and domestic investment (which will) lead to generation of additional socio- economic development, skills transfer and the creation of job opportunities”, emphasised Pumi Motsoahae (CEO of RBIDZ).
RBIDZ is recognised as a unique investment destination, boasting:
Purpose-built and secure industrial estate on the northern- eastern coast of KwaZulu-Natal
Linked to the international deep-water port of Richards Bay. Easy access to roads and railway lines. Tailored for manufacturing of goods and production of services to boost beneficiation, investment, economic growth and development of skills and employment. Customs Controlled Area. Richards Bay has a strong industrial heritage, defined by the existence of its many key multinational companies in the mineral resources, logistics and marine sectors, and these offer strong support in terms of raw and intermediary inputs for downstream beneficiation.
To invest in Richards Bay IDZ visit or contact 035 788 0571.