SAICE members visit Fibertex in KZN

As part of Fibertex South Africa’s commitment to nurturing engineering skills in Africa, the team plays an active role in organising educational events, conferences and site visits for industry, professional organisations and students.

Fibertex recently hosted a plant tour at its Hammarsdale manufacturing plant for members of the Durban branch of the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) as well as students from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and the Durban University of Technology (DUT).

“This event – which focused on an introduction to geotextiles and geosynthetics – formed part of our accredited Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme, that is designed to improve and broaden knowledge and skills of architects, civil engineers, consultants and students in the construction and civil engineering sectors,” says Brian Potgieter, Technical Sales Engineer, Fibertex South Africa. “We concluded a tour of our plant with a presentation on the important role that geosynthetics and soil reinforcement play in structural design and solutions.

“Fibertex South Africa – specialists in the manufacture and supply of a comprehensive range of geosynthetic products – plays an important role in civil engineering and construction projects in Africa, through collaborative partnerships. It is a pleasure for our team to be associated with the SAICE – a professional organisation that strives to elevate, educate and empower the civil engineering sector. Through the CPD programme, we establish important partnerships in the industry and promote shared goals that contribute to the advancement of geosynthetic solutions.

“Our CPD programme also encourages the development of emerging talent within the field of geosynthetics, by supporting skilled and innovative professionals who will promote growth of the industry.”

Fibertex is the largest manufacturer of UV stabilised virgin PP (polypropylene) nonwoven geotextiles produced in Africa, with certification for durability of over 100 years, in accordance with the latest EN standards. These needlepunched materials, with a strong mechanical bonding between the fibres, are used in building and construction works for separation, filtration, drainage, protection, stabilization and reinforcement, as well as in the automotive, furniture and filtration markets.

Fibertex prioritises virgin polypropylene (PP) for its geotextiles due to its exceptional chemical resistance. This is particularly advantageous in applications with high alkalinity, such as slimes dams and waste containment sites. Virgin PP exhibits a high level of chemical stability across a broad pH range, making it suitable for diverse environmental conditions encountered in civil engineering projects.

This focus on material stability minimises the risk of product degradation due to chemical interactions. Such degradation could lead to premature geotextile failure, resulting in significant financial repercussions and potential environmental damage.

Fibertex woven and nonwoven geotextiles play an important role in diverse sectors, including mining, civil engineering, construction, waste and environmental fields. The company also offers solutions to automotive, filtration, furniture and flooring industries.

Fibertex South Africa’s team of experts from branches in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and the Western Cape, offers a technical advisory and support service, to ensure correct specification of durable and safe materials for every project.

Additional information:

Fibertex offers a comprehensive range of geosynthetics for various civil engineering applications. The product portfolio includes:

Separation and Filtration: Nonwoven and woven geotextiles for soil separation, filtration and drainage.
Soil Reinforcement: Geogrids and geocells enhance soil strength and stability in structures like embankments and retaining walls.
Erosion Control: Solutions like geosynthetics for slope stabilisation and erosion control.
Cellular Confinement: Cellular confinement systems for ground improvement and load support.
Drainage: Drainage pipes and geocomposites for efficient fluid management.
Liquid Containment: Geosynthetic Clay Liners (GCLs) used in composite lining systems for modern landfills, ensuring optimal containment security.
Gabions and Mattresses: These prefabricated stone baskets provide erosion protection and structural support in riverbanks and retaining walls.