FUCHS LUBRICANTS SOUTH AFRICA showcased its expanded Isando facility during a customer day on 26 February 2025, marking a significant milestone for the leading lubricants manufacturer.
Efficiency and development
Manufacturing Executive Thami Mzolo, who joined the company in early 2024, describes the expanded facility as the most efficient plant upgrade he has ever worked on. DRA Global, contracted for the EPCM project, excelled in design and execution, enabling us to commission the plant a month ahead of schedule.
Strategic investment
In mid-2020, FUCHS launched the second phase of its ‘Creating Capacity’ strategy, says MD Paul Deppe. As part of Phase 1, we acquired neighbouring land and built a new warehouse and head office in Isando, completed in late 2022. At 4.5 times the size of the old one, the new warehouse alleviates congestion and optimizes storage for raw materials, packaging, and finished goods, Deppe explains.
Technology and capacity
The customer day highlighted our new facilities and capacity expansion, unlocking significant growth opportunities for FUCHS as the leading independent lubricants manufacturer. With the expanded facility operational, Mzolo focuses on maintaining flexibility, leveraging efficiencies, and ensuring quick turnarounds for customers.
The fully automated blending process, integrated with the SAP ERP system, ensures precise dosing, consistent material processing, and FUCHS’ renowned quality standards.
State-of-the-art improvements
Three state-of-the-art filling lines significantly enhance capacity for IBCs, drums, pails, and small packs, including 1- and 5-litre sizes. Advanced quality assurance features include leak prevention sensors and a checkweigher to eliminate missing packs.
Grease plant capacity
Commissioned in 2018, the grease plant leverages robust systems and a skilled team to ensure consistent production and quality. An additional shift could boost grease plant capacity by 25%, underscoring our readiness for future demand.
Conclusion
“This expansion reaffirms our industry leadership, delivering quality and value efficiently and sustainably,” concludes Mzolo.