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PAT’s New Plant in Full Production
Tuesday, 17th May 2005

The seamless commissioning of a second plant in Brits completes a vital step in PAT’s expansion and enhancement programme. Pasdec Automotive Technologies’ new plant in Brits was fully operational on the 21st March, a mere four days after the move commenced. Through meticulous planning and the tireless efforts of all staff, the virtually seamless transition was achieved without any loss of production.

Known as Plant 2, the new facility will house the cutting and crimping, extrusion and battery cable operations, with a fully equipped quality control laboratory and a tool room. The plant, which provides employment for 139 people, has been furnished with all the necessary staff facilities, such as a canteen and first aid room.

Plant 1 will primarily be an assembly facility, with a despatch and development area. Management services, administration and the training centre are also based on these premises. According to Bully Bisschoff, PAT’s operations manager, the return on a significant investment in Plant 2 is already starting to materialise. “In addition to relieving space pressures on the assembly plant,” says Bully, “we are benefiting from better workflow and improved productivity. At the same time we have optimised quality and instituted effective control measures. The move has equipped us to cope with increased production demands and ensure that we are ready to meet anticipated growth for years to come.”

Whilst the commissioning of Plant 2 has been extremely successful, it has presented a few challenges. Located approximately two kilometers from Plant 1, the new plant has resulted in the added movement of materials, a challenge that has been met with effective controls at both plants.

Keith Turner, PAT’s director operations, expressed his satisfaction with the move saying, “The manner in which the plant was commissioned without disrupting supply to our clients is a credit to all involved. With this upgraded, more efficient facility we are now well set to provide our existing clients with world-class products and services, as well as expanding our markets locally and internationally.”

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