As part of its ongoing commitment to customer satisfaction and industry leadership, steel and technology group Voestalpine has recently conducted facility upgrades at its Isando-based steel warehouse, and has expanded its product offering and services to include machining.

These strategic endeavours aim to improve operational efficiency, expedite order processing, enhance customer service and strengthen relationships with industry professionals.

“By embracing modern design principles, advanced technologies and a diversified product portfolio, we are dedicated to providing an elevated experience to our customers while reinforcing our position as a reliable and forward-thinking supplier,” says Voestalpine marketing officer Sherilee Steenkamp.

After detailed planning, Voestalpine optimised the layout of its facility to better serve its customers.

“We believe the transformation and optimisation of our steel plant in Isando, will result in improved material flow and enhanced production optimisation.

“Our sawing and machining service has improved to operate at a significantly higher level of efficiency and productivity,” Steenkamp comments, attributing this increase in productivity to the phased roll out of technology, optimised inventory storage and overall management, as well as reduced travel time of materials between storage locations and operational areas within the facility.

“The positive feedback we have received from both customers and suppliers regarding the plant has been remarkable. Particularly long-standing customers and suppliers who have been with us during the transition period have expressed their satisfaction with the changes,” she adds, noting that their support and encouragement has motivated Voestalpine to “continue driving change and implementing new ideas, to become a truly world-class facility”.

The relaunch of the redesigned warehouse additionally serves as a platform to showcase the company’s significant upgrades, and provides an opportunity for customers, partners and industry professionals to witness the investments Voestalpine has made in infrastructure, technology and logistics.

Future technology improvements are expected, the company confirms.

As part of its commitment to meeting customer needs and becoming a complete solutions provider, Voestalpine has also diversified its product portfolio by introducing Uddeholm hot work grade steel, and mild steel.

The Uddeholm hot work grade steel will bring numerous benefits to the market, Steenkamp says.

“We believe the attributes of this grade will offer our customers benefits in their operations, along with longer component life.”

Mild steel, also known as low carbon steel, offers versatility, affordability, and ease of fabrication, making it widely used across various industries.

The addition of the S355-J2 grade mild steel complements the company’s current offerings, providing a high-quality option for diverse applications.

It offers versatile thickness options, ranging from 2.5 mm to 100 mm, allowing flexibility in construction projects. Competitive pricing is ensured across branches without compromising quality, Steenkamp says, noting that the company’s extensive network and strategic locations “enable easy access and prompt delivery”.

“With quality-checked mild steel, competitive pricing, and wide availability, we deliver a reliable and cost-effective solution, upholding Voestalpine’s high standards.”

Its inclusion therefore aligns with market trends and customer demands, she says, noting that from construction to manufacturing, mild steel finds applications in a variety of sectors.

“Our company takes pride in offering a comprehensive range of services, including machining and heat treatment such as case hardening, vacuum heat treatment, stress relieving and much more,” Steenkamp notes.

She adds that Voestalpine’s machining capabilities, enables it to provide “specialised services such as blocking up”.

Moreover, the company has the expertise and resources to manufacture custom components.

Expanding Reach

Voestalpine is actively engaging with the knifemaking industry through exhibitions to showcase its high-quality offerings.

These exhibitions, such as the Knifemakers Guild of Southern Africa, serve as a platform to connect with knifemakers, establish relationships, and highlight the exceptional qualities of Voestalpine’s Bohler steel.

By participating in exhibitions, the company aims to expand its presence, attract new customers, and reinforce industry trust in its steel offerings.