Transnet to Localise the Manufacture and Supply of Rail

[John Ashworth]

Transnet To Localise The Manufacture And Supply Of Rail To Reindustrialise The Economy

As part of its strategy to localise rail manufacturing, Transnet SOC Ltd. has issued a Request for Information (RFI) relating to the local manufacture and supply of rails on 10 July 2020.

The objective of the RFI is to assess the current market’s capabilities and capacity to manufacture, as well as determine the timelines and investments required to meet Transnet’s demand that is projected at approximately 77,000 tons per annum over the next twenty (20) years.

Transnet buys rails of a prescribed standard specification and lengths and has a continuous rail replacement programme that - amongst others - meets the requirements of the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR). The preferred specification for the entire system is the 60kg head hardened rails, as this enables interoperability of rolling stock and ensures that maintenance is optimised...