Ongoing investment in tech, people underscores company’s commitment

Anchored fundamentally in the principle of efficiently managing its manufacturing processes, conveyor belt solutions manufacturer Tru-Trac Rollers’ ongoing investments in “state-of-the-art technology” and its adherence to strict international quality standards underscore its commitment to excellence, says Tru-Trac GM Franco Cloete.

This strategy, he explains, ensures a high standard of quality, while continuously enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring cost-effectiveness, both of which he touts as critical factors that underpin the company’s competitive edge globally.

Based in Centurion, South Africa, Tru-Trac’s facility amalgamates in-house manufacturing, research and development (R&D), and a commitment to cultivating a progressive workplace culture.

Tru-Trac’s iterative R&D process is informed by direct field experience and active customer engagement.

The company’s manufacturing operations are rooted exclusively in South Africa, though its products have reached multiple international markets, including the US, Australia, and various countries in Europe.

“We are steadfast in our decision not to relocate, driven by a desire to effect positive change within South Africa and a firm belief in the local workforce’s potential,” Cloete says.

Consequently, Tru-Trac actively contributes to community and workforce development through significant investments in skills enhancement.

“This enables cost-effective manufacturing, while laying the groundwork for a sustainable business model,” he says.

Cloete highlights that this approach not only allows Tru-Trac to address the industry’s pressing challenges but also strengthens the company’s dedication to refining its manufacturing processes, bolstering sustainability and achieving operational excellence.

A core aspect of Tru-Trac’s operational philosophy is fostering a work culture that values job satisfaction among employees, Cloete says, noting that this is achieved through “inspirational messaging, mentorship, and creating an environment that encourages personal and professional growth”.

“We believe in empowering our staff, encouraging the sharing of knowledge, and maintaining a non-siloed approach to problem-solving,” he tells Engineering News.

Diversification

Tru-Trac intends to continue investing in expanding its capabilities, including in-house processes such as sheet and tube laser cutting, bending and cone rolling, sandblasting and rubber lagging, to improve lead times and maintain high stock levels for high-demand items.

This commitment to excellence and sustainability is coupled with a focus on leveraging the latest technologies and optimising manufacturing processes to ensure efficiency and minimise waste, he adds.

In recent years, Tru-Trac has experienced significant growth and has strategically expanded its manufacturing capabilities at a local level, thereby enhancing its competitiveness on an international scale.

The acknowledgment of its tracking solutions globally prompted Tru-Trac to diversify into related conveyor solutions.

Capitalising on its established international distributor partnerships, Tru-Trac broadened its product range to include recognised brands of belt scrapers, skirting rubbers and impact beds.

At present, Tru-Trac operates around 50 service teams across South Africa and other African nations to provide customer support, necessitating the expansion of in-house sales teams located in key mining regions across Africa.

The company’s global presence now extends to over 80 countries, serving nearly every mining nation from its facility in Centurion, which employs over 100 individuals in the manufacturing division alone.

Tru-Trac COO Shaun Blumberg views this expansion and diversification as reflective of the company’s adaptability and its dedication to meeting the evolving demands of the market.

“This has reinforced our status as a comprehensive solutions provider,” he says, attributing Tru-Trac’s continuous growth to its forward-thinking stance on innovation, particularly in the development of patented solutions aimed at addressing prevalent industry challenges, such as belt misalignment.

“This emphasis on innovation in addressing ... challenges underscores Tru-Trac’s commitment to efficiency, safety and cost-effectiveness in the conveyor solutions domain,” he tells Engineering News.