Middelburg
Columbus Stainless
Columbus Stainless, located in Middelburg, South Africa, has a rich history marked by technological advancements that have positioned it as a leader in the stainless steel industry. Established in 1964, the company´s origins trace back to the RMB Alloys Ferrochrome Pilot Project in 1963 and the subsequent formation of Southern Cross Steel Co Pty Ltd.
Image photography
By Viktor Macha in 2025.
Plant facts and figures
Full description
In 1967, Southern Cross Steel officially opened its rolling mill, successfully producing the first sheet of stainless steel.
A significant technological milestone was achieved in 1977 with the development and patenting of 3CR12®, a ferritic steel containing chromium, offering a longer product life than mild steel.
The company underwent several transformations, becoming the Steel Division of Middelburg Steel & Alloys (Pty) Ltd in 1968 and later MS&A Stainless (Pty) Ltd in 1990. In 1991, Columbus Stainless was formed when Samancor and Highveld Steel acquired the stainless steel facility of MS&A Stainless from the Barlow Group.
A major “brown fields” project commenced in February 1993, culminating in September 1995, which modernized and expanded the existing facilities.
Today, Columbus Stainless operates as a technologically advanced, fully integrated, single-site operation. Notably, it is the only integrated stainless steel factory on the African continent, underscoring its unique position in the industry.