With over four decades of experience in the development of pumping solutions, family-owned company Creamers Lubrication Products, which owns Pumprite and is based in Alrode, has firmly established itself within the pumps industry by ensuring that heavy mining equipment receives proper lubrication through dependable lubrication transfer systems.

This ensures extended uptime for essential mining machinery and helps meet operational efficiency targets, the company says, adding that it also provides a comprehensive range of products for pumping and transferring grease, oil, fuel and abrasive fluids.

Offerings include electric, pneumatic and manual systems, as well as a variety of accessories such as oil and diesel meters, oil control handles, fuel nozzles, hydraulic hoses, retractable hose reels, funnels, dispensers, mobile oil trolleys and waste oil drains, among others.

Pumprite also specialises in industrial pumping solutions, including pumps tailored for mining lubrication applications, which play a pivotal role in sustaining mining operations, says MD and head designer Gerard Creamer.

In conversation with Engineering News, Creamer explains that the company’s journey started in 1978 in the family home’s garage, “marking humble beginnings”.

“Leaving the garage led to challenges but also new opportunities. My machines were sold to an acquaintance, and I secured space at an industrial equipment supplier. Ownership changes prompted further moves, eventually landing us in an area known for affordable factory spaces, despite safety concerns,” Creamer says of the pivotal move to Alrode, in Johannesburg.

The Alrode facility features cutting-edge technology, including computer numerical control lathes and machining centres, which are equipped with a wide range of tooling, enabling the machining of materials such as mild steel, bright bar, aluminium, stainless steel, tool steel and various other materials.

The facility also houses conventional lathes, turret machines and a fabrication workshop with drilling, milling, bending, forming and pressing capabilities. This comprehensive setup allows for versatile manufacturing processes.

Moreover, while it was originally geared towards the mining industry, the company has since diversified to serve various sectors, including automotive, agriculture, construction and marine.

The evolution of Pumprite has also led to the integration of electric, pneumatic and manual fluid pumping and transfer solutions, addressing critical equipment consumables and a range of liquids with varying viscosities.

Creamers Lubrication Products, over the years, dedicated extensive efforts to research and development for its Pumprite brand.

This commitment, Creamer says, has resulted in the creation of a diverse catalogue of primary pumping and fluid transfer products, along with complementary solutions.

Customer Needs

Customer needs take precedence in the company’s approach, especially because it is vital to stay attuned to market demands.

Creamer notes that when customers inquire about products outside the company’s current range, it “sparks discussions and prompts us to explore fresh product lines”.

“Our goal isn’t to mimic existing items but to craft solutions that align with evolving market trends. Adapting to changing demands is essential,” he says.

For instance, the company has developed an array of products, including hand-operated pumps. It has collaborated with a plastics expert to enable the company to offer distinctive solutions like lighter plastic containers and innovative pump designs. This engagement also provided opportunities to venture into retractable hose reels featuring coil springs and specialised tools, such as the bearing packer, for greasing bearings.

Notably, the company’s signature pump design, originally conceived of in the 80s, offers various length options, catering to diverse customer needs.

“Our dedication to innovation remains unwavering, and these efforts have empowered Creamers Lubrication Products and the Pumprite brand to stay competitive alongside larger rivals for over four decades,” Creamer enthuses.

The company takes pride in being a “one-stop solution for individuals with pumping and liquid transfer requirements”, and he says that this approach is crucial for streamlining the process and ensuring that customers locate their required products efficiently.

Avoiding the need for repeat visits and potential rejections is paramount for ensuring customer satisfaction, Creamer tells Engineering News.

Pumprite further offers specialised solution development and manufacture – an endeavour that aims to enhance operational efficiencies and boost client productivity through equipment uptime.

Custom design, development and scaling capabilities, as well as full in-house service, repair and refurbishment competencies, provide Creamers Lubrication Products and the Pumprite brand an advantage over other brands.

Its well-equipped manufacturing facility is dedicated to delivering high-quality products on schedule.

Pumprite takes a consultative approach to product development, engaging with existing customers to gather crucial information about the specific use case and application requirements.

This ensures that the delivered product aligns perfectly with the application's specifications.

Outlook

In terms of recent milestones and accomplishments, he highlights the innovative mixer, currently in progress, which has the potential to become a standout product in the coming year or two. It has received positive feedback and generated significant interest, he notes.

Additionally, he highlights the evolution of hose reels that have emerged as a vital facet of the business.

“We have made substantial progress in catering to specific customer requirements, exemplified by our recent project involving a one-and-a-half-inch hose reel. This project holds great significance because it serves customers in need of larger hose sizes, thereby preventing us from missing out on potential clients,” he concludes.