The South African Fluid Power Association (SAFPA), exists to raise the professional standards of the pneumatics and hydraulics industries. Originally established in 1982 as the Fluid Power Institute, the 33-year-old Association encourages, promotes and aids in knowledge-sharing to advance the best practises of the industry. This includes experience, ideas and knowledge pertaining to methods, processes and techniques relating to pneumatics and hydraulics between Association members.  

With active membership exceeding 100 (80% corporate and 20% individual), SAFPA is recognised as the official voice of the combined hydraulic and pneumatic industry. “We encourage companies in this specialised industry, as well as those affiliated to these companies, to join our ranks,” says SAFPA President Eugene Tondolo. “This will aid us in further cementing ourselves as The industry representative body, granting us greater clout when dealing with government and lawmakers, for example. This ultimately benefits our industry.”  He adds that increased membership will aid in furthering education in the industry sector, ultimately adding value to organisations and their personnel.  

Membership advantages Membership to SAFPA unlocks many industry advantages for companies and individuals alike:

Earn CPD points. As an Engineering Council of SA (ECSA) member, SAFPA’s monthly technical member meetings carry CPD points.

A voice that counts. Our ECSA membership means that you have representation at the highest engineering echelon.

Influence product and solution standards. SAFPA is continuously involved with the SABS in respect of relevant standards.

Sway industry. SAFPA remains abreast of, and gets involved with, projects which have the potential to influence industry.

Keep current. SAFPA stays up-to-date with international power fluid trends.

Code of Ethics. All SAFPA members adhere to a strict ethical code which regulates relationships between members, their customers and suppliers. For this reason membership certificates can aid in tender applications.

Affect National Standards. Members can belong to working groups and sub-committees which deal with industry related issues. This allows them to make direct input into national standards, technical handbooks and education requirements, for example.

Relevant courses. SAFPA runs regular one-day courses in hydraulic hose safety training, essential for everyone in the industry.  

Education and professional standards The Association also stimulates and promotes education, training and original research in the pneumatics and hydraulics fields. “We’re looking at the possibility of developing a mentorship programme that will assist young engineers who wish to acquire their Pr. Eng (professional engineer) registration,” says Tondolo.  

More of the Association’s aims are to build synergistic rapport between companies in the industry; and create liaison with similar institutes and organisations abroad.  

“We are not all work and no play,” says Tondolo in conclusion, “and encourage members to join us at our golf, soccer and cycling events, as well as our annual dinner. These provide fun for members involved in an intensive industry while providing ideal networking opportunities.”     

To join the Association, or to find out more about it, visit www.safpa.org.za. Alternately, the Association secretariat can be contacted on 011 888 7163 or an email sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..