Although the Van der Walt family has been associated with the foundry industry since the 1960s, it was in the year 2005 that the company poured its first casting. The first-generation brothers Koos, Johann, and Jan Van der Walt have always been a close-knit union when it came to business, and this strong bond has continued through to Johann’s sons, Vincent and Cobus, and son-in-law Louis Miller.
At the age of 76, Johann remained an integral part of the business, producing new handcrafted patterns daily. Koos passed away in 2000, Jan retired in 2008, and Johann sadly passed away in 2021, leaving the second generation to run the company.
The Van der Walt family’s involvement in Knights Foundry spans multiple generations. The younger generation of Vincent, brother Cobus, sister Belinda, and brother-in-law Louis Miller continues to maintain the company’s rich legacy. Letitia, wife and mother, has been the backbone of the administrative side since its inception.
In recent years, the foundry has expanded significantly. Knights Foundry invested R4.5 million in a state-of-the-art greenfield facility, marking an important milestone in its continued growth. The new foundry is housed under 1,600m2 with an additional 600m2 dedicated to fettling, and features high-efficiency furnaces and automated systems.
Knights Foundry has implemented advanced systems to improve production processes. The introduction of a no-bake molding system, continuous mixer, reclamation system, and high-efficiency furnace allows the company to produce castings with increased precision and energy efficiency.
The company commissioned its second foundry in Wadeville, Gauteng, expanding its capacity and operational efficiency. Notable upgrades include a new 1,200 amp substation, a 1.5-ton furnace, and automated molding and reclamation systems. This investment has helped the company meet the growing demand in the local and international markets.
As part of its commitment to quality, Knights Foundry has implemented ISO 9001, OHSAS 18001, and ISO 14001 certifications. These certifications affirm the company’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards in quality management, health and safety, and environmental impact.
Despite technological advancements and expansions, Knights Foundry remains a family-owned business. The Van der Walt family’s commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and innovation continues to guide the company forward as it looks to further strengthen its position in the global market.