Sassda
Steel Fabrication in Johannesburg

The Southern Africa Stainless Steel Development Association (Sassda), since 1964, is one of the most active stainless steel industry associations in the world and has, been involved in increasing the awareness and use of stainless steel in Southern Africa.

The Southern Africa Stainless Steel Development Association(Sassda), is one of the most active stainless steel industry associations in the world and has, since 1964, been involved in increasing the awareness and use of stainless steel in Southern Africa. Sassda also provides a comprehensive list of services to its member base including technical information and advice, education, training and skills upgrading, a range of publications and marketing, industry and business development support. The Association is governed by a Constitution with an elected Main Committee having control of its affairs. It is also assisted by consultants operating out of various regions. Membership of the Association, which is subject to ratification by the Main Committee, is open to both national and international companies and individuals, in good standing involved in the production, distribution, fabrication, conversion and use of stainless steel. Sassda, which is a non profit-making body, derives its income from a variety of sources. These include membership subscriptions, a levy on the sale of domestic and imported stainless steel, networking events and income from publications, education and technical activities. Each sector appoints a chairman who represents that sector on the Main Committee. Sectors are also encouraged to produce brochures on their capacity and activities as a way of making the market aware of their capabilities. Stainless Steel is commonly used in the manufacture of cutlery, pots and pans, but its strength is also appreciated for the more industrial applications. In contrast, stainless steel has chromium present which blocks corrosion or rust from spreading into the metal’s internal structure. Environments with very low temperatures to prevent brittleness. Environments with extremely high temperatures to maintain the strength. Where hygienic conditions and easy cleanability is a priority. Stainless Steel is preferred when aesthetics are important. It does not rust and paint is therefore not necessary. Know the design: Good design ensures savings for fabricator and user. Long Term Value When the total life cycle costs are considered, stainless steel is often the least expensive option. Low Maintenance Costs Stainless Steel normally only requires a periodic wash using a dilute solution of household detergent and water. Corrosion Resistance Lower alloy grades resist corrosion in normal atmospheric and potable water environments, while the more highly alloyed grades can resist corrosion in many acids and alkaline solutions, and some chloride bearing environments, properties that are found in process plants. Strength The mechanical properties of stainless steel allows thinner sections to be used than with other materials, thus reducing weight without compromising strength. Hygiene Internationally recognised as the most hygienic surface for the preparation of food. The unique surface of stainless steel has no pores or cracks to harbour dirt, grime or bacteria. This cleanability far exceeds other surfaces making it the first choice for strict hygienic conditions, such as hospitals, commercial kitchens, abattoirs and other food and beverage processing plants.