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Unidelta S.P.A

  Year after year, our range of valves expands, offering increasingly complete solutions to meet the needs of a constantly evolving market.

#Unidelta #Valves #Innovation #Quality #Evolution

  Anno dopo anno, la nostra gamma di valvole si amplia offrendo soluzioni sempre più complete, per rispondere alle esigenze di un mercato in continua evoluzione. #Unidelta #Valvole #Innovazione #Qualità #Evoluzione

https://youtu.be/jJNsjFrtjP0?si=zWDNTPcwaIUPoFNf

But our story is about more than products. It’s about people, progress, and responsibility. Water is one of our most precious resources, and how we use it today shapes the future. That’s why our guiding message is clear: Irrigate Responsibly.

Shenton Botes, Managing Director, explains:
“Our customers trust us for reliability, innovation, and consistency. For over four decades, we’ve built connections that matter, and that legacy continues.”

Elandrie Zietsman, Sales & Marketing Manager, adds:
“ The strength of Astore Keymak lies in delivering complete solutions that help our customers grow while protecting resources. Irrigating responsibly is not just good practice — it’s essential for the future.” 

Our Vision & Mission

Shenton continues:
“With our fittings, you are assured of a 50-year leak-free connection, giving peace of mind and long-term value. They are also WRAS approved, which means the systems are safe enough for potable water. That’s the standard of quality that Astore Keymak stands for.”

Why Choose Astore Keymak?

• Decades of Strength – A trusted partner since 1985
• Innovation in Flow – modern solutions for modern challenges
• Sustainability First – Helping industries and farmers irrigate responsibly
• At Astore Keymak, every connection is designed to last for 50 Years — ensuring strength, sustainability, and smarter use of water.
• Astore Keymak. Decades of Strength. Irrigate Responsibly.

“Driven by Quality. Delivered by Experience”

For Astore Keymak, KragDag wasn’t just another expo it was a chance to connect with communities seeking practical, long-lasting solutions for water management, agriculture, and off-grid living. Our exhibit featured leak-proof irrigation systems, durable PVC piping, and flexible hose technologies designed to withstand South Africa’s harsh climate.

The team also took time to explore other exhibits, network with industry peers, and attend thought-provoking talks on sustainability and innovation.

Astore Keymak spent months preparing for KragDag, carefully planning their layout and product displays. “The first day it was raining, and things could’ve easily gone sideways,” said Juan Harmse. “But instead of panicking, the team pulled together, everyone jumped in to protect the setup and keep things moving.”

Gordon Klopper added, “That moment showed our grit. No one hesitated. We worked fast, stayed positive, and made sure the booth looked great despite the weather.

When reflecting on KragDag Gordon Klopper was fuelled with excitement and pride at “the fact that our MD Shenton Botes brought through all the ladies to come out of the office a bit and see what a show day is all about.” As the expo wrapped up on the 9th, Astore Keymak left KragDag with more than just leads they left with renewed purpose.

KragDag reminded us that our work matters, We’re not just selling products we’re helping build a more resilient South Africa. Astore Keymak is already looking forward to KragDag 2026, where they plan to return with even more solutions and stories to share.

Interested in learning more? Visit www.astorekeymak.co.za to explore their full range or get in touch for technical advice and product support.

Supply of a complete range of PVC pipe, bends, valves, fittings and hose, not to mention various plastic sheet types, is all in a day’s work for Shenton

Astore Keymak is a leading manufacturer of PVC hose

Comprehensive supply to water reticulation sector across Southern Africa

Astore Keymak celebrates 40 years

Goes up a gear as milestone approaches

ASTORE KEYMAK is celebrating 40 years in business this year and, if anything, the company has geared up further to celebrate the milestone in style.

Besides its manufacture of PVC hose, Astore Keymak is a market leader in the supply of thermoplastic fittings, including compression fittings from Unidelta of Italy, PVC valves, fittings and pipe from Astore and FIP of Italy; a wide range of finished products such as electro fusion fittings and polyethylene and polypropylene sheet from Agru of Italy. That’s just the highlights package though.

The company is owned by JSE-listed Hudaco group.

The business was founded as Astore Africa in Cape Town in 1985 as a small importer of specialized plastic fittings from Astore Valves & Fittings of Italy, setting the tone for what has now been a four-decade journey as a supplier and more recently a manufacturer of various products for the water reticulation sector in southern Africa.

Evolution has been continuous since: in ’92 it commenced with the supply of plastic welding machines, with supply to the plastic pipe market becoming key, and has opened branches around the country progressively. A top highlight was its purchase in 2008 by Hudaco group (originally Hubert Davies Co, founded in 1891 in Johannesburg as a supplier to the mining industry) and it is in this multi-pronged group that the company has since flourished.

Production of PVC hose was commenced in 2012 and in 2017 it rebranded as Astore Keymak.

More was in store, however, with a number of investments undertaken, beginning with the purchase of a large manufacturing site in Randfontein for the production of its range of PVC hoses in 2023 and the purchase of Plasti-Weld, a specialist supplier of plastics welding systems in Benoni, the following year.

Shenon Botes of BTCap fame was appointed managing director of Astore Keymak in 2023 and instilled energy and vision in the business. The company has 10 branches around South Africa and, according to Shenton, has refined its systems to completely support the water reticulation sector across southern Africa.

The actual celebrations are scheduled for November!

Engineering News talked to Astore Keymak and Plasti-Weld MD Shenton Botes at Nampo 2025, in Bothaville, to discuss how the thermoplastics specialist is helping drive sustainable, efficient growth in South Africa’s agricultural sector.

The company is showcasing solutions at the Free State event that are tailored for the South African agricultural environment. Its practical, sustainable innovations include high-performance piping and irrigation systems that conserve water and reduce maintenance.

Recognising the importance of versatility and customisation, Astore Keymak manufactures its own plastic welding rods through its recent acquisition of Plasti-Weld, and it stocks an extensive range of plastic welding equipment from leading brands, such as Leister and Ritmo. These products are essential for industries that require precision welding solutions, further showcasing the company’s commitment to meeting specialised customer demands.

Astore Keymak's presence at Nampo is a reaffirmation of its dedication to long-term value and agricultural resilience in South Africa.

Nestled in Carletonville, Rotalia has been a beacon of hope for over 38 years, providing care to 25 full-time adults with intellectual disabilities, aged 23 to 75. Some have lived there for more than three decades—with no family ties, but surrounded by love that runs deep and wide.

This is more than just a care facility. Rotalia is home. It is family. It is where love grows

Fully reliant on community support, Rotalia provides everything—from meals and clothing to medical care, stimulation, and emotional safety. During school holidays, some residents return home, while others remain to enjoy a structured holiday program. Their daycare centre welcomes both residents and home-based individuals with similar disabilities from the community, offering intellectual stimulation from 08:00 to 13:00—led by dedicated facilitators who believe in unlocking every mind’s potential. At 13:00, the visiting children head home, and the residents continue their day in the warm embrace of this sanctuary.

This year, Rotalia welcomed their first-ever social worker, Cornel Gonsalves, who says, "I believe this position was waiting for me. I’m truly happy to be here."

The soul of Rotalia lies in its people—a team driven by purpose, love, and extraordinary commitment:

Cindy Smith, Manager – 5 years ("We learn from them.")

Lizette Schoeman, Boarding House Mom – 4 years ("They all call me mom. I love working with them.")

Merlin Springbok, General Assistant – 4 years

Noni Balopi, General Assistant – 4 years ("I’m happy to be here.")

Sarah Sereo, Laundry – 8 years

Johnny Crispin, Relief Hostel Caretaker – 1 year ("I love the children.")

Oupa Petrus Johannes Blom, Facility Caretaker – 20 years ("I love working here.")

Lea Montsho, Cook – 18 years

Lettie Mathibela-Night Shift Assistant

And the warm-hearted facilitators:

Lina Viljoen, Daleen Toxopeus, and Maryke Erasmus

Rotalia also runs a charity shop, open to the public, as part of their goal to become more self-sufficient. If you’re nearby, please support them. Every donation and purchase helps nurture this beautiful space where love grows.

Their dream? To one day take their residents and the children on holiday—to offer joy, adventure, and memories that last forever.

As Chairman Basil Straus says, "If we see our children smile, we’ve achieved our objective. This is their home. This is their family."

From all of us at Astore Keymak, Plasti-weld, and SBS, we left Rotalia not only humbled but inspired. This special place reminded us to appreciate more, give more, and always—make a difference, even if it’s simply through a smile.

Rotalia, where love grows.

A place that changes lives, including ours.

Water scarcity is one of the most pressing challenges facing South Africa, particularly in the agricultural sector. As one of the largest consumers of water, the industry must prioritise efficiency to ensure long-term sustainability and food security.

“Water is our most precious resource, and it is our responsibility to use it wisely,” says Shenton Botes, managing director of Astore Keymak. “That’s why we’ve launched our ‘Irrigate Responsibly’ campaign, to help farmers optimise their water usage with high-quality, innovative solutions.”

South Africa’s semi-arid climate, coupled with frequent droughts, makes water conservation a national priority. Inefficient irrigation practices, outdated infrastructure, and excessive water wastage, due to non-compliant fittings, place immense pressure on already limited water resources.

RISING COSTS

Farmers face rising operational costs and reduced crop yields when water is not managed effectively. “We can’t afford to take water for granted,” adds Botes. “Without responsible irrigation, our ability to sustain agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods will be severely impacted. Every drop counts, and we need to ensure it reaches where it’s needed most.” As a leader in the thermoplastic industry, Astore Keymak provides durable, high-performance solutions designed to enhance
water efficiency in farming. Through strategic partnerships with premium global brands and local manufacturing, the company is helping farmers implement sustainable irrigation systems. Here are the key solutions for water-smart farming:

• Unidelta compression fittings 

These high-quality fittings, manufactured to Aenor, South African National Standard, and Water Regulations Approval Scheme standards, ensure secure, leak-free connections in irrigation systems, and providing portable water connections, preventing water loss and improving efficiency.

FARMERS FACE REDUCED CROP YIELDS WHEN WATER IS NOT MANAGED EFFICIENTLY

Their durability reduces maintenance costs, providing long-term savings for farmers.

• Dragline and garden hoses 

Manufactured locally, these hoses are designed to withstand the demanding conditions of South African agriculture. Made from virgin materials, they offer superior flexibility, ultraviolet stability, and guaranteed resistance to leaks and bursts, ensuring reliable water distribution. “By investing in premium fittings and hoses, farmers can significantly cut down on water wastage,” Botes emphasises. “It’s not just about saving water; it’s about securing the future of agriculture.” Beyond supplying high-quality products, Astore Keymak is committed to educating farmers on responsible irrigation practices. The ‘Irrigate Responsibly’ campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of water conservation and promote best practices in agricultural water management.

CALL TO ACTION

“At Astore Keymak, we don’t just sell products – we provide solutions that empower farmers to use water efficiently and sustainably,” says Botes. “As farmers, industry leaders, and consumers, we all have a role to play. By making smarter choices today, we can ensure a watersecure future for generations to come. Let’s irrigate responsibly.”

Water is one of the planet’s most vital and vulnerable resources. As global temperatures rise, populations grow, and rainfall becomes more unpredictable and erratic, the importance of water conservation has reached a critical level. Nowhere is this challenge more evident than in agriculture, where water is both a foundation and a fragile lifeline. The call to save every drop of water through smarter irrigation isn't just an agricultural concern—it’s a global responsibility.

Fortunately, innovative companies like Astore Keymak are leading the charge in transforming how we use water through modern technology by offering accredited and certified product for a sustainable infrastructure. As a strong supporter of World Earth Day, Astore Keymak doesn’t just promote eco-friendly practices, they live them. Their involvement in this global initiative reflects their deep-rooted commitment to protecting the environment through water-wise innovation.

Astore Keymak: Driving Sustainability Through Product Innovation

Astore Keymak is a South African leader in thermoplastic piping systems, valves, irrigation solutions, and fluid control technologies. Their product offerings—ranging from HDPE piping, accredited compression fittings, PVC and PE valves to drip irrigation systems, valve boxes, and locally manufactured PVC dragline and garden hoses amongst many other—support industries where fluid control and water conservation is essential.

These solutions are designed not only for agricultural use but also for mining, civil, industrial, and infrastructure sectors, helping to optimize water usage and reduce losses across the board. Their extensive range allows for customized fluid management systems that are durable, efficient, and aligned with sustainability goals.

The Problem with Traditional Irrigation Methods

Traditional irrigation systems such as flood irrigation or open canal methods have long dominated agriculture. However, these approaches are deeply inefficient losing up to 50% of water through evaporation, runoff, and seepage. Even most closed loop systems are built with unaccredited and inefficient products that are not leak proof due to its poor resistance to the harsh exterior conditions and its poor life expectations.

In a time when water scarcity threatens food security and rural livelihoods, these wasteful systems are no longer viable.

Embracing Irrigation Responsibly Through Using Accredited Potable and Leak-proof Fittings

This is where irrigate responsibility becomes essential. Instead of applying water uniformly across entire fields regardless of need, modern irrigation technologies allow for targeted, efficient delivery based on data and real-time conditions.

Beyond Agriculture: Water-Smart Solutions for All Industries

Water conservation extends far beyond farms. Astore Keymak’s product line includes solutions for municipal water systems, industrial plants, and mining operations, helping reduce leaks, manage pressure, and optimize water delivery. Products like flow meters, electrofusion fittings, and automated valve systems allow for tighter control and smarter resource allocation, reducing overall water waste and energy costs.

These benefits are added especially in urban infrastructure and commercial sectors where water efficiency directly affects operating budgets and sustainability reporting.

Astore Keymak’s Commitment to Earth Day and Awareness

Astore Keymak’s participation in World Earth Day is more than symbolic. Through workshops, product demonstrations, and collaborations with environmental organizations, they promote the importance of water stewardship across communities. Their Earth Day campaigns spotlight the tangible benefits of water-saving technologies, encouraging individuals, businesses, and municipalities to rethink how they use and manage water.

The Future of Irrigation: Tech Meets Tradition

Smart sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) devices now enable automated irrigation systems that respond to real-time data on soil moisture, weather patterns, and crop health. Combined with Astore Keymak’s robust piping systems and fluid solutions, these technologies make irrigation systems more responsive, efficient, and sustainable.

Moreover, integrating traditional water-saving methods such as rainwater harvesting and contour farming with Astore Keymak's products creates a powerful synergy, combining indigenous knowledge with cutting-edge infrastructure.

In conclusion, saving every drop of water is no longer optional, it’s a necessity. With the help of technology and responsible partners like Astore Keymak, we can shift from outdated, wasteful irrigation methods to systems that conserve, optimize, and sustain. Their innovations in fluid control, and water-saving infrastructure provide the tools we need to face today’s water challenges. Astore Keymak’s continued support for World Earth Day and its ongoing product innovation reflects a deeper mission and vision:

“Delivering on one of our most precious resources, driven by quality, delivered by experience, our vision is helping you and the community save every drop of water for a sustainable environment”