03 June 2025 | Story: Supplied | Photo: VUT
2 minutes read time.
In a dynamic effort to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world industry practices, students from the Vaal University of Technology’s (VUT) Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering (CME) embarked on an insightful educational site visit to the Multotec Group of Companies in Spartan, Kempton Park, on 23 May 2025. Organised through the Metallurgical Engineering Student Society (METESSO), the visit offered a valuable opportunity for students to engage directly with one of South Africa’s leading mineral processing equipment manufacturers.
Accompanied by faculty members Ms Shylene Chingowo, Ms Christina Mathebula, and Mr Lawrence Mosea, the students toured Multotec’s state of the art facilities. They gained practical exposure to various mineral processing operations. The department expressed sincere appreciation for Multotec’s continued support in promoting practical training initiatives for VUT students.
During the visit, students explored several manufacturing sections, including the Mato Products Factory, where conveyor belt clips and screen panels are produced, and the Samplers Workshop, which showcased mineral sampling techniques. The tour also covered polyurethane (PU) casting processes for durable mineral processing components and introduced students to Cyclones City, where hydro cyclones and dense medium separation (DMS) cyclones with advanced ceramic linings are designed for optimal separation efficiency.
The visit provided students with a practical perspective on theoretical concepts taught in class, such as equipment design, material separation, and manufacturing processes. Observing PU casting and spiral concentrator operations reinforced their understanding of particle separation and material properties. At the same time, a glimpse into Multotec’s research and development laboratories illustrated the critical role of innovation in advancing mineral processing solutions.
The experience was enhanced by Multotec’s dedicated team, including Mr Maite Ngoasheng, Mr Aviwe Konzani, a proud VUT alumnus, and Ms Kelly Bernhardt, who ensured a seamless and engaging tour. Mr Ngoasheng guided students through Cyclones City, while Mr Konzani led the Samplers Workshop, sharing his inspiring journey from VUT student to industry professional.
Students were encouraged to explore vacation work opportunities, with Mr Konzani emphasising the value of hands-on experience during academic breaks in improving future career prospects.
Speaking during the visit, third year Metallurgical Engineering student Mr Kutullo Ngobeni expressed his appreciation for the opportunity: “The tour of Cyclones City and the Samplers Workshop opened my eyes to how our classroom knowledge applies to real industry practices. We are grateful to Multotec for their hospitality and the team for making complex systems engaging and easy to understand.”
The educational visit not only broadened the students’ technical knowledge but also motivated them to pursue their studies with renewed commitment. The initiative underscored the importance of collaboration between industry and academia in developing future ready engineers equipped to address global challenges in mineral processing and beyond.