By Eamonn Ryan
Metraclark hosted one of its regular customer evenings on 12 September in Bedfordview, Gauteng.
Master of ceremonies Metraclark general manager Kobus Hattingh. All images © RACA Journal
Master of ceremonies general manager Kobus Hattingh and operations manager Johann Jooste, called up several of its major suppliers for their product and company presentations, while also providing an update on developments at Metraclark itself.
Metraclark’s customer payment commitment portal
Metraclark has recently launched a customer payment commitment portal accessible through its website, designed to enhance the efficiency and security of financial transactions. This new portal allows clients to view their account details in real-time and make payments directly. By integrating with Metraclark’s ERP system, the portal ensures that payments are automatically allocated based on the submitted remittance, which helps to minimise human errors and resolve account queries more effectively.
In addition to these features, the portal calculates settlement discounts automatically, reducing the need for manual calculations by users. It addresses the increasing risks associated with commercial crime, with threats including stolen identities, phishing emails, and fraudulent changes to banking details. To mitigate these risks, clients need to be vigilant and verify any suspicious communication by contacting their credit controllers directly.
Furthermore, Metraclark emphasised the importance of its customer buying card, a tool designed to enhance transaction security. This card offers additional protection by allowing businesses to set spending limits, block cards if employees leave, and track transactions. This card is a key element in Metraclark’s strategy to protect against fraudulent transactions and ensure greater security for their clients.
E-Commerce portal
Jooste discussed the development and advantages of its new e-commerce platform, which has been operational for two years. This platform, built with the support of an international team and the backing of Beijer Ref, is designed to enhance the online shopping experience for its customers.
The e-commerce site aims to provide a seamless and secure online shopping experience. Users benefit from a single account system that integrates both branch and online services, simplifying account management. The platform offers around-the-clock access to pricing for nearly 2 000 items, eliminating the need for manual discount calculations. Additionally, it streamlines delivery management and allows for nationwide ordering.
Jooste highlighted the emphasis on safety and security within the platform, noting that online shopping should be both easy and secure. Customers using the platform can access pricing and manage deliveries directly from the site.
Operations manager Johann Jooste.
Carrier air-conditioning
Bret Campher, training and support manager at Metraclark, emphasised what important role Willis Haviland Carrier, better known as “The Father of Cool”, played in history as the inventor of modern air-conditioning.
Now, 120 years after Carrier’s invention, Carrier air-conditioners are still rated worldwide as one of the top HVAC Brands.
Campher continued by highlighting important key points for Metraclark under the Carrier product roadmap, countrywide product support and selecting the best Carrier air-conditioner product solution for different applications.
Copeland rebranding
Wayne van der Merwe, sales manager at Copeland South Africa provided an update on recent developments within the business, which has undergone significant changes over the past year. Previously known as Emerson Climate Solutions, the company is now operating under the name Copeland, following its acquisition by Blackstone Investments.
This transition marks a major shift as the business has been restructured into three main segments: HVAC, industrial solutions, and electronic controls, with a pronounced focus on compression technologies and sustainability.
Copeland boasts a global presence with 18 000 employees, 27 manufacturing facilities, and 12 research and development centres. The company is committed to driving advancements in energy efficiency and sustainable technologies, including the use of low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants and renewable energy sources. Noteworthy investments have been made in biomethane and hydrogen blending, reflecting the company’s commitment to sustainability.
The presentation also highlighted Copeland’s adaptation to global trends such as modulation, traceability, and precise temperature control to meet evolving consumer expectations and regulatory requirements. The company’s global operations are expanding, with significant investments in research and development anticipated, particularly in North America and Asia.
The Danfoss range of heat exchangers
In a presentation, Louwrens Dreyer from Danfoss provided a comprehensive overview of the company’s diverse product range and recent developments. Danfoss, with its extensive operations in climate solutions, power electronics, drives, and power solutions, has made significant strides toward sustainability, including setting ambitious goals for net-zero emissions at three of its factories.
Dreyer highlighted Danfoss’s offerings, particularly noting their range of heat exchangers. The company provides three types of heat exchangers: gasket and plate heat exchangers for industrial applications and edible oils; microchannel heat exchangers for commercial uses; and brazed plate heat exchangers used in chillers and data center cooling units.
In addition to heat exchangers, Danfoss’s electronic controllers allow for advanced remote monitoring and management of cold rooms and other systems. The company’s controllers are designed for ease of access and connectivity, enhancing the functionality of installed systems.
Dreyer also mentioned Danfoss’s acquisition of Eaton, integrating hydraulic and pneumatic supplies, and BOCK, which now complements their range of compressors. Danfoss offers various compressors, including scroll, fixed-speed, inverter- controlled, and ammonia compressors, with a recent push to integrate ammonia components into CO2 applications, which is particularly relevant for the South African market.
Fuchs expands reach
Fuchs Lubricants SA, established in 1994 through the merger of three oil companies, has grown into a leading independent lubricant manufacturer, with a workforce of 160 employees. The company has expanded its reach across South Africa, operating six branches with its manufacturing headquarters in Sandton.
Additionally, Fuchs is strengthening its presence in Africa, particularly in the southern region, and is working to establish further operations in northern Africa.
Specialising in food-grade lubricants and specialised greases, Fuchs distinguishes itself in the global market as a top independent lubricant manufacturer. The company operates 35 production facilities and 57 operating companies worldwide, serving various industries including automotive, industrial, and mining sectors.
Fuchs provides a broad range of lubricants, including those for automotive use, metalworking, and special applications including refrigeration oils and various lubricants with high thermo-chemical stability, low varnish formation, and reliable wear protection.
In Sandton, Fuchs has recently invested in expanding their facility, which will increase its capacity by 40%.
Gifts were handed out at the end of the presentations.
Rothenberger marks 40 years in SA
Samantha Joffe, sales representative at Rothenberger SA, provided an overview of the company, emphasising its rich history and global presence. Founded in 1949 as a family-oriented business, Rothenberger has grown significantly, with operations in 36 countries and over 150 markets worldwide. The company, which has been active in South Africa since 1984, is noted for its specialisation in HVAC tools and has maintained a strong family business ethos for more than 75 years.
Rothenberger operates with 35 sales organisations and 14 product sites, and boasts an in-house product development rate of over 60%. Among its offerings is Roairvac, a battery-operated HVAC tool designed for convenience and efficiency. The Roairvac is notable for its 90-minute run time, compact size, and lightweight design, making it easy to transport and use even in areas without electricity.
In addition to the Roairvac, Rothenberger provides a broad range of HVAC tools, including soldering and bending equipment.
The Sinclair air-conditioner range
Presentation by: Pieter Nel – Sinclair Product Manager. In the presentation, Sinclair, a European brand managed by Beijer Ref, offered a succinct overview of their extensive HVAC solutions. Operating in Europe for the past two decades and recently expanding its distribution rights since 2021, Sinclair presents a broad product lineup designed to meet diverse heating and cooling needs.
Sinclair’s offerings include Split, Multi-Split, Variable Refrigerant Flow, Fixed and Inverter Rooftop, Air-cooled and Water-cooled Chillers and Caravan units.
One of Sinclair’s standout features is their VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) heat pumps and heat recovery systems, which can combine up to four condensers into a single system, achieving a total capacity of 400kW. The heat recovery systems can deliver up to 246kW, providing efficient and flexible heating and cooling solutions.
The company emphasises its range of central controllers and BACnet-compatible systems, highlighting its focus on integrated control solutions. Its product line also includes chillers, with air-cooled units reaching capacities over 1 600kW and water-cooled units exceeding 2 000kW, also BACnet compatible.
