Local steel supply shortages and the increased reliance on imports, owing to the, at the time of writing, anticipated shutdown of ArcelorMittal’s long-steel plants, could have a negative impact on the steel and stainless-steel industries, with knock-on effects in the agriculture, automotive, construction, energy and mining sectors, says welding technology supplier Unique Welding CEO and director Gaetano Perillo.

“The reported shutdown of ArcelorMittal may lead to local supply shortages, as well as increased reliance on imports. These factors naturally drive costs upward and affect product availability. The broader industrial slowdown resulting from the steel plant closures could also impact sectors that Unique Welding serves, leading to potentially reduced demand for welding products and gases.”

Additionally, issues at the South African ports and the country’s “soon-to-be restored” rail system may pose various supply chain hindrances for equipment deliveries, impacting on production processes.

However, with ArcelorMittal having recently deferred the wind-down of its long steel business, for an initial period of at least six months, to August 31, these anticipated impacts will likely be delayed as well.

Product and Service Solutions

Unique Welding’s innovation and technological advancements, including its Thermamax steel and stainless-steel consumables range for various production purposes, offer a “ray of hope”.

The company offers steel industry players the ability to stay afloat during tough economic and industrial times through the supply of its Thermamax welding equipment and consumables.

The Thermamax range includes products for the welding and cutting of an array of metals including aluminium, mild steel and stainless steel, which can be used in various production applications across multiple operations.

Unique Welding also provides fully integrated gas and welding solutions by providing customers with Air Products’ shielding gases, which are ideal for welding using numerous steel and metal types.

The company can also tailor its solutions based on customer-specific requirements.

Support and Training

To cement its reputation as a reliable partner to its customers, Unique Welding offers on-site technical training, conducted by expert technicians.

This is beneficial for customers working with any Thermamax and gas products, as it will help to safeguard workers’ health and safety, which, in turn, is testament to Unique Welding’s adherence to and belief in the welding industry’s stringent safety requirements.

“We continue to place great emphasis on quality and training. Investing in workforce training, for our organisation and our customers, ensures that we are consistently involved in the delivery of high-quality welding products and services, aligning with industry demands and maintaining a competitive edge,” says Perillo.

Unique Welding intends to ensure that its 14 branches throughout South Africa are “efficient and steadfast” in providing African steel and stainless-steel industries with premium welding and gas solutions.

The company is focused on expanding its network of operations, integrating technological advancements and maintaining its “premium” customer support.

“Unique Welding aims to explore potential growth opportunities in the future. These opportunities are likely to be found in areas such as renewable energy, infrastructure development and the agriculture sectors,” he concludes.