Water-jet cutting service provider Maxjet Global has used its extensive experience in the manufacturing of pump and valve components to produce components that are specified for their application.

“All our valve components are produced using stainless steel 304, 316, 310 and especially duplex stainless steel grades that have proven to be superior in some applications.

“What is also unique from Maxjet is our highly skilled team and highly equipped design centre where we can nest these components closely to minimise the waste of our raw materials,” says Maxjet Global director Preeshan Naidoo.

Most of these valve components are precision-manufactured to fit into a pump using several manufacturing processes such as casting. The casting of valve housings is common, as the particular valve can be mass-produced at a lower cost, and the chemical composition can be adapted based on the application of the valves.

Naidoo states that, with the varying stainless steel grades used, some materials may be cost effective, while some are produced from superior grades. Owing to the current market climate, users might opt for a cheaper alternative, but Maxjet ensure that the risk factor and cost of downtime is explained to a client.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has certainly affected and disrupted our production landscape, as we have faced various shortages of materials, and the available materials are now fetching premium prices, owing to a higher demand. However, clients’ selecting more superior grades of materials, owing to their increased life span, has allowed industry players to mitigate some of these challenges.”

Naidoo says South Africa has a “solid background” of experienced manufacturers and engineering companies that can manufacture high-quality parts; however, the challenge lies in the higher operating costs.

“Even with the higher operating costs, when supply challenges arose during the pandemic, with imports being delayed, our local manufacturers were always readily available to assist.”

Valves play a pivotal role in controlling and regulating the flow of liquids or gases, and Maxjet produces internal components for gate valves, ball valves and butterfly valves, besides others, which are primarily used in most pumping systems that are operating under high pressure.