While the easing of lockdown restrictions has allowed for easier logistical navigation globally, the war between Russia and Ukraine has created a knock-on effect in terms of the increase in raw-material costs, particularly for specialised valves, consequently creating economic challenges.

Despite these challenges, industrial valves supplier Process and Allied Contracting Equipment (PACE Valves) MD Charlotte Vaughan states there is a surge in sales and procurement in the valves industry, with “substantial’ growth in new builds and expansion projects across various sectors.

“The outlook for the valves industry in South Africa is promising. We have the right skills set, knowledge and ability to continue to grow this trade and meet our clients’ needs,” says Vaughan.

While South Africa may have to deal with country-specific challenges and global influences, the country’s ability to persevere through those challenges is a much “sought-after” attribute in the workplace globally, Vaughan adds.

“Value for money, cost-effective solutions and value-added service are the contributing factors to remaining successful in this business. We need to react quickly to clients’ needs and find economical, timeous solutions to their on-site demands.”

The partnership between PACE Valves and Australia-based specialist flow control solutions company Proeger has allowed PACE to better service the industry in Africa.

While the companies are not in the same time zone, they are able to liaise with Proeger and ensure that clients are able to receive assistance and solutions in a timeous manner.

PACE Valves has become Proeger’s sole and preferred distributor for African severe service paste projects.

Meanwhile, PACE Valves has embarked on several successful projects over the past four months, the latest being the backfill area for the Kamoa copper mine, in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

While this project is still in the commissioning phases, all of the highly specialised backfill valves have been successfully delivered to site and are in the final stages of installation.

“We have been privileged to work with Proeger and DRA, a diversified global engineering, project delivery and operations management group, on this project and look forward to the successful completion in the near future.”

The partners have also embarked on a new project for a mine in Africa, with PACE Valves having assisted in selecting suitable products for specific requirements.

“We will continue to join forces with Proeger as the partnership enables us to offer a unique solution to the mines’ severe service and backfill sections, as well as to assist Proeger in advancing its installation bases, product recognition and industry specific growth,” she says.

PACE Valves aims to continue expanding its footprint both locally and abroad.