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DRIVES AND CONTROLS Marthinusen & Coutts is unique in that it is the only independently owned service provider that is capable of providing extensive maintenance, repair and special manufacturing solutions for all electrical and mechanical rotating machinery reference base of successfully completed projects, innovative maintenance solutions, record turnaround time breakdown repairs, and numerous on-site maintenance contracts. Botton is quick to caution about the difficulties of providing maintenance services in African countries, with some companies lacking the necessary infrastructure, expertise and extensive experience that Marthinusen & Coutts is known for on complex projects and emergency repairs. “A critical factor is that Marthinusen & Coutts has been involved in Africa for more than a decade, and as such has a sound knowledge of what it takes to deliver a quality solution to our customers in the countries in which we operate,” Botton says. “It is our in-depth understanding of African conditions that allows our teams to get there, make a plan, manage and execute projects; and that is on an ongoing basis with numerous repeat customers.” Key differentiators for Marthinusen & Coutts include its rapid response time, culture of dedicated customer service and ability to mobilise quickly and efficiently in tackling critical projects. “We understand our customers’ business needs and that they cannot afford unscheduled downtime. Many of these projects are vital to ensure regular power supply to mining projects and other sectors, so our speed, understanding and service delivery are all essential,” Botton says. In addition, all Marthinusen & Coutts branches have direct access to the Centre of Excellence in Cleveland, Johannesburg. Critical equipment at this facility includes a 32 t balancing machine, extensive testing capabilities and a fully equipped machine shop including CNC machines. “While these advantages give us the competitive edge, Marthinusen & Coutts is also adept at thinking out of the box and renowned for its flexibility and ingenuity,” Botton says. “Our long-term strategy is to become the preferred integrated electrical and mechanical services provider for the power generation and mining industries in Africa and across the globe,” Botton notes. “What gives us the leading edge in terms of these African contracts is that we can leverage the other divisions within the ACTOM Group to provide us with additional manufacturing capability, products, and expertise,” he concludes. David Brown Santasalo expands service in key mining markets David Brown Santasalo’s brand new service centre in Tianjin this year officially opened and will support the huge industrial gearbox service and repair opportunity present in China. Li Zihua, Managing Director - China, explains: “In 2012- 2015 alone, approximately $52 billion was spent on industrial or high-end gearboxes; all of which will need to be serviced and maintained in the