In the dynamic landscape of Southern Africa’s pump industry, a transformative collaboration between pump supplier AESPUMP and international technology group ANDRITZ AG is set to redefine standards, bringing unparalleled expertise and cutting-edge solutions. AESPUMP’s business development team shares their insights into this groundbreaking alliance and its potential impact on the region.

A Partnership with Promise

AESPUMP’s strong aftermarket service presence and ANDRITZ AG’s remarkable 170-year history in the pumping industry lay the foundation for a collaboration that spans 182 years of combined experience. This strategic partnership promises to introduce premium pumping solutions, leveraging ANDRITZ AG’s role as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) with vast equipment and process design expertise.

AESSEAL and sister company AESPUMP MD Shane Chester expresses a positive outlook on how this collaboration will influence the Southern African pumping industry, particularly in the mining sector.  

“The shared history and un-wavering com-mitment of both entities promise to introduce a diverse range of premium pumping solutions to the region. With ANDRITZ AG serving as the OEM, clients can expect a comprehensive and seamless experience – a one-stop-shop for all their pumping needs, further solidifying the collaborative venture’s impact on the industry.”

Adding to the narrative, ANDRITZ AG Sales Manager for the Pump Division Cornell Beyrow comments, “Our partnership with AESPUMP opens up exciting opportunities and I am convinced that we will achieve a lot together. We are ready to tackle the South African market with innovative and customised solutions. Thanks to our combined expertise, commitment to quality and innovation, we are well positioned to create sustainable growth.”

Tailoring Solutions to Local Challenges

When delving into the features of ANDRITZ AG’s pump solutions, Chester underscores the adaptability enabled by a diverse selection of construction materials. This versatility proves crucial across a spectrum of process applications. The comprehensive range encompasses end suction process pumps, horizontal split casing pumps, submersible pumps, agitators and mixers – each designed to cater to a multitude of mining process applications.

“The array of options enables ANDRITZ AG to address the diverse needs of the mining sector, including the treatment of tailings dams.  This flexibility ensures cost-effective solutions tailored to our local requirements, setting us apart in the market,” Chester explains.

Within the framework of colla-boration with ANDRITZ AG, AESPUMP is set to elevate its local services. These services encompass a wide spectrum, ranging from the essential supply of original spare parts to the deployment of trained personnel for seamless installation and start-up processes.  Additionally, AESPUMP will provide extensive services, including inspections, repairs, overhauls and routine maintenance, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the pumping systems. The partnership extends further to machine assessments conducted by experts for early fault detection, vital for proactive maintenance strategies. Beyond the operational realm, AESPUMP will offer consulting and modern-isation services, coupled with performance and vibration measurements, to enhance efficiency.AESPUMP’s expertise will extend to the preparation of maintenance schedules, fostering proactive maintenance practices, and the establishment of service and maintenance agreements. The collaboration also places a significant emphasis on customer training, ensuring that clients are equipped with the knowledge necessary for optimal system management and operation.

Strategic Growth Plans

With an eye on the future, AESPUMP’s Chester discusses the strategic initiatives envisioned to ensure the company’s successful growth. “Since our inception in 2012, AESPUMP has been on a growth trajectory. Our stra-tegies involve partnering with engineering, procurement and construction firms, focusing on both green and brownfields projects.  Establishing service level agreements with 

our clients is paramount to ensuring plant reliability, and we plan to identify and empower local companies to enhance our presence in regions where we have less visibility.”

As for the impact on market share, Chester asserts, “This collaboration ensures the organic growth of AESPUMP.  By delivering tomorrow’s solutions today, we anticipate a significant increase in our market share, particularly in the vital sectors of mining, water and wastewater, including pulp and paper industries.”

Integration of AESSEAL Mechanical Seals

In the realm of reliability and performance, the integration of mechanical seal supplier AESSEAL’s mechanical seals into pump solutions takes centre stage. Chester elaborates: “Our clients benefit from the local stock holdings and presence in almost every province, ensuring accessibility and minimising downtime. AESSEAL, a globally preferred mechanical seal supplier, has proven over many years to be a reliable solution, contributing to extended pump life and optimised performance.”