We would like to commiserate with John Gibbs' saga about the construction of his new home (editorial March 2004 issue of I&C). We feel however that the cause of poor workmanship goes further than just greed. There is no longer any pride in doing a job correctly. To coin a rather hackneyed but, in this case, appropriate phrase, this is a Grassroots Problem. Unless we can improve the work ethics of everyone, we will spiral into the Third World abyss. The solution is not simple but a partial answer would be is for all those who grew up during the time when there was pride in doing the job well, to set the example themselves and also not accept shoddy workmanship. This will mean that some workers will become unpopular with their peers or subordinates, but it will be worthwhile for the reputation of our country, and our safety - yes safety is involved when poor workmanship is allowed to permeate an industry responsible for the control of potentially hazardous process plant.
Meetings
Our March meeting was sponsored by Lapp Cables. The presentation was given by Mark Dilchert and was well attended, leading into an evening filled with renewed ideas on cables, where applications, installation and the importance of choosing the correct inner, outer sheath, protection UV and chemical resistance, with size to suit your particular application. The importance of correct terminations and the prevention of moisture ingress were highlighted. An interesting example of modern cable design was a cable that changes colour when mechanically damaged, or it has become too old. This meeting was well prepared and everyone left the meeting with a new vision on conductors (cables).
This month's topic is 'Smart solutions - instrument/electrical engineering packages' on 21 April. Please note that this meeting has been delayed by a week to allow for the elections. Our meetings are normally held at the Rivonia Country Club every Second Wednesday of the month at 18h00. The presentation starts at 1830 sharp and is limited to 1 hour and ends at 19h30.
Drinks and eats are sponsored, so come and join in the discussion and gain some valuable knowledge.
See you there.
Site visits
7 April - Wika factory tour
Please come and join us for the Wika factory tour. This world-class facility is where you will witness the manufacture and assembly of pressure gauges, thermocouples, RTDs, and chemical seals. Included is lunch in the Wika staff canteen. There is no charge for members or guests, but the size of the group is limited and it is necessary to reserve your place.
Come and meet us at the Wika offices, with ample secure parking.
31 June - BMW factory tour
This visit is limited to 30 visitors and is an opportunity not to be missed. Tour the BMW Roslyn motor assembly plant. The cost is R50 per person, and includes lunch at their canteen (transport to Roslyn is not included in the price).
For site visit bookings, contact Johan Grobler, cell 082 853 0153 or send him an e-mail: jg@wspgroup.co.za
SAIMC golf day
At last we have a fixed date - 11 June 2004.
Book a fourball and reserve a water hole where you can meet all the players, display your company banners and join in with the fun and prizegiving. All players will receive a prize no matter how well they played. Everyone manning waterholes is welcome to join us for supper at the end of the day. The Leeukop Golf Course has limited us to a maximum of 30 fourballs so do not delay, contact Greg Smook on greg.smook@siemens.co.za or Paulo da Silva paulod@kubler.co.za
Chairman, Johan van Jaarsveldt
johan.vanjaarsveldt@za.endress.com
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