Based in the Wheatbelt town of Cunderdin, agricultural machinery manufacturer Trufab Global has been nominated as Australia’s only finalist in the 2018 Swedish Steel Prize.
The prize recognises the use of high-strength steel that challenges traditional design by using modern materials to create the highest levels of performance.
Trufab’s nomination is for its new Nyrex Chaser bin, which features a modular design using minimal welding.
The bins, manufactured from light and extremely durable Strenx steel, in a range of sizes, are being introduced to Australian grain farms, reducing grain discharge times, energy use and minimising soil compaction on farms.
The Nyrex Chaser bins use a Strenx product that is 25 per cent lighter than steel plate and provides a longer life than conventional bins.
Its assembly process uses laser technology in a bolted construction that avoids steel bowing from welding, creating savings in time and energy.
The modular construction also helps reduce freight costs enabling the Nyrex Chaser bin to gain an international audience.
Trufab chief executive officer Colin Jorgensen said the company was delighted to be recognised as a world innovator in its field.
While the family run business was established in 1962 working with structural steel, over the years it had evolved into a business focused on grain handling equipment.
“Our use of cutting edge technology, high quality materials and skilled labour means we are providing customers with innovative and intelligent solutions to increase their productivity and efficiency,” Mr Jorgensen said.
Other finalists include a truck-mounted sky-lift from Italy, a cutter for clearing roadside vegetation from Finland and a new lightweight trailer from Italy.
The winner of the award will be announced at a ceremony in Stockholm on May 24.
