VUT chemical engineering students explore a glimpse into the industry
17 October 2023
On 11 October 2023, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT)’s Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering (CME) Department through the facilitation of the departmental Social and Outreach Committee (SOC), organized a plant visit for the second-year chemical engineering students. This excursion took them to Ingrain SA, a division of Barloworld South Africa, a prominent player in the chemical engineering sector. Ingrain SA is recognized as one of Africa’s largest producers of unmodified and modified starch, glucose, and related products.
The visit was expertly arranged in collaboration with the Socio-Economic Development Team at Ingrain SA – Kliprivier Mill, led by Ms. Nthatisi Nyofane, providing an invaluable opportunity for students to witness the real-world applications of their studies.
Accompanied by members of staff and the chemical engineering SOC, including Mr. Gadinkosi Dube, Mrs. Shonisani Muthubi, Mr. Edward Modiba, Mr. Pascal Mwenge, Ms. Vhahangwele Sigonde, and three executive members from the Society of Chemical Engineering Students (SoChES), namely Simphiwe Zwane, Mponeng Lekola, and Paballo Mokapela, the students embarked on a journey filled with knowledge and inspiration.
The plant visit presented an exceptional learning experience for the students. One of the standout moments of the trip was an encounter with VUT alumni, who added a personal touch to the experience by showcasing potential career paths available to chemical engineering graduates. Ms. Nasiphi Bewana, the works manager at Ingrain SA, shared her personal journey, emphasizing the challenges of job hunting, financial constraints, and gender inequality. She encouraged the students never to give up, to continue learning and to exhibit a positive attitude and behavior. In addition, Ingrain staff, including Mr. Micheal Mogoloane, Mr. Mpho Macingwane, Ms. Nokhuthula Buthelezi, Mr. Neo Mahlatsi, and Mr. Kgotso Boroko, emphasized the importance of competence and exhibited attributes such as hard work, teamwork, problem-solving, innovation, and respect.
The visit provided valuable insights into various aspects of chemical engineering, including reaction technologies, heat exchangers, cyclones, process control, and the production of starch, glucose, and related products. The students had the unique privilege of touring different operating plants, each with its specific role in the manufacturing process. These included the maize intake, wet mill, dry starch and agricultural products, refinery, syrup storage, and dry product storage areas. This immersive experience allowed them to witness the intricate details of production at Ingrain SA.
The excursion not only offered an educational experience but also served as a source of inspiration for the students. It underscored the crucial connection between academic learning and industrial applications, illustrating the vital role that chemical engineers play in supplying materials essential for our modern way of life.
Mrs. Muthubi, a VUT Laboratory Technician, pointed out that the department provides students with fundamental knowledge and practical exposure of engineering equipment at laboratory and pilot scale, all of which are well aligned with industry standards. This visit was a window into the exciting possibilities that await these budding chemical engineers, offering a glimpse into the pivotal role they might one day fulfill in the world of chemical engineering.
As the students returned to their studies, they carried with them not only newfound appreciation for the importance of their field but also a deeper understanding of where their passion for chemical engineering could lead them in the future. They described the trip to Ingrain SA as a stepping stone beyond textbooks and lectures, providing an inspiring vision of the practical impact of their studies and a promising path in the world of chemical engineering.
Prof. Tumisang Seodigeng, acting head of department (HOD) of CME, expressed his endorsement for these field trips and urged the university to maintain its financial backing and encouragement for such initiatives to enhance the quality of teaching and learning.