Powertech Transformers, a subsidiary of Powertech and the JSE listed Altron Group, is pleased to announce that its Pretoria Factory Test Department recently received SANAS accreditation conforming to the ISO/IEC 17025 Standard.

The company is the first transformer Original Equipment Manufacturer within South Africa to receive this particular accreditation. The South African National Accreditation System is recognised by the South African Government as the single National Accreditation Body that awards formal recognition to Laboratories, Certification Bodies, Inspection Bodies, Proficiency Testing Scheme Providers and Good Laboratory Practice that their test facilities are competent to carry out specific tasks.

The process which commenced more than two years ago involves the integration of the ISO/IEC 17025 standard into the current system which Powertech Transformers’ Test Department has in place.  This entailed following guidelines set by the ISO/IEC17025 in creating a quality process that would suit the industry.  The main challenge for the team was the absence of a base to work from in terms of an accreditation process for transformers.  Normally a set standard can be found based on other facilities’ accreditation processes; however with Powertech Transformers being the first transformer manufacturing company in South Africa to be awarded this accreditation, the standard had to be created from a zero base.

 For a high voltage test department such as the one at Powertech Transformers, it takes many years of developing mind-sets and adapting specific processes in accordance with the guidelines laid down by SANAS which takes dedication and discipline.   Through this successful SANAS accreditation, Powertech Transformers is dedicated and accredited to deliver world class service to its internal and external customer base.  The world class service will be achieved through transparency during testing and ethical decision-making thereby ensuring that Powertech Transformer stays the preferred transformer supplier within South and Southern Africa.  Bernard Meyer, CEO said “Powertech Transformers has embraced the importance of SANAS accreditation many years ago. Our first facility to reach ISO/IEC 17025 status was our electrical calibration laboratory back in 1990.

Since then our Temperature and Torque calibration laboratories followed in 2000. Without a doubt this recent achievement for our High Voltage Power Transformer Test facility to gain ISO/IEC 17025:2005 status is a major milestone for us. Having an independent in-house SANAS accredited facility to perform Factory Acceptance Testing will bolster customer confidence for adherence to IEC 60076 test criteria.” Powertech Transformers supplies a full range of transformers, from generator step-up to transmission and distribution transformers in its three factories. The range includes three-phase and single-phase units, auto-transformers, arc-furnace, locomotive and traction transformers, miniature sub-stations, NECRT’s as well as LNER’s and shunt reactors.