Background & History

MH Automation (Pty) Ltd was formed in 1970 to bring to the market the results of research and development carried out by the founder members.

Technical expertise for the design and development of crane control systmens and the marketing experience was provided by a core group with 65 man years experience in Production Cranes and Winders.

Since the formation of MH Automation, we have supplied and installed thousands of Thyromat Systems, mainly to the more sophisticated client, where robust reliability and maximum production levels are of prime importance. These clients include Steelworks, Base Metal Manufacturers, Port Authorities , Mining Industry and other major users of production machinery both locally and internationally.

To view our customer list click here

Angus McDonald - Founding member of MH Automation

Timeline 1970 - 2014

1970 - MH Automation is registered by former owners to supply Motor Control Solutions to the South African market.

1988 - MH Automation ownership is transferred to current owners, incorporating 65 man years of electrical engineering expertise to the company. The 'Thyromat' Thyristor Control System to introducted to the South African Market.

1988 - MH Automation awarded first contract for Electrical Equipment for 2 X 25T/50T/25T Hot Metal Ladle Cranes for Copper Smelters at Palabora Mining Company.

1990 - MH Automation awarded first contract for Electrical Equipment for 2 X 90kW Vertical Material Mine Winders for the Mining Industry in South Africa.

1992 - MH Automation awarded contract for the supply of 'Thyromat' Control Systems for 4 x 250/50/25 Ton Hot Metal Ladle Cranes at Iscor Newcastle B.O.F Plant.

1993 - MH Automation visits mainland China to research market opportunities for already proven ' Thyromat' Control systems.

1994 - MH Automation appoints agents MH Automation International Ltd in the United Kingdom to explore European market opportunities.

1995 - MH Automation awarded first order for Control Equipment in mainland China for 1 x 250/50T plus 1 x 130/10T Cranes for Dalian Crane Works.

1995 - MH Automation awarded first order for Control Equipment to refurbish Billet Handling Crane at Tremorfa Steel works in Cardiff, UK.

1996 - MH Automation are appointed agents for the Vacon Inverter and introduce Inverter Control onto production cranes in the South African market.

1997 - MH Automation awarded contract for the supply of Control Equipment for 2 x 250/50/25T Hot Metal Ladle Cranes at Benxi Steel Plant in mainland China.

2004 - MH Automation awarded contract for supply of 'Thyromat' Control Equipment for the refurbishment of 500T charging crane at Corus Steel (Port Talbot), Wales.

2014 - MH Automation has supplied over 10 000 Control Units throughout Southern Africa, mainland China and the United Kingdom, achieving significant growth in each market and providing reliable and robust control solutions for its customers.