The acquisition, which is expected to be finalised in the fourth quarter of 2021, will boost the Sandvik Rock Processing Solutions division's offerings in feeders, fine separators, drives and services. Financial details of the deal were not yet disclosed.
"I am pleased that we are continuing to execute on our strategy to grow through acquisitions and at the same time strengthening our position in rock processing. I look forward to welcoming Kwatani to our Group," says Stefan Widing, president and chief executive of Sandvik.
Sandvik Rock Processing Solutions said the large multi slope screens offering acquired in this, the division's first acquisition since its founding in October 2020, will boost its presence in Africa.
"Kwatani's offering of large vibrating screens and feeders for the mining industry is in line with our strategy to strengthen our capabilities in comminution and will be a good complement to Sandvik's strong competence and experience within stationary crushing and screening," added Anders Svensson, president of Sandvik Rock Processing Solutions.
Kim Schoepflin, chief executive of Kwatani, said combining the resources of Sandvik and Kwatani was "a complete game-changer for the vibrating equipment industry".
"What is most significant and exciting for the South African economy is that our facility is set to become the global engineering and manufacturing base for vibrating screens and feeders for both local and international customers."
Schoepflin noted that the Kwatani brand would remain unchanged despite its incorporation into Sandvik Rock Processing Solutions.
Other benefits of the deal include access to Sandvik's monitoring and automation processes and access to its extensive R&D facilities, including simulators.
"This will provide opportunities for driving efficiency arising from the advance of artificial intelligence in the Fourth Industrial Revolution and will significantly empower the process of cost-effective customisation," she said.
Kwatani had revenues of about SK175 million (US$20.8 million) in 2020, noted Sandvik.
