History was made recently in South Africa’s industrial heating sector as the very first Autoflame Mini Mk9, proudly supplied by Combustion Technology, was successfully installed and commissioned on a THERMAX Thermal Oil Heater newly manufactured by Cape Boiler & Heater. This milestone marks a new era in precision combustion management, bringing cutting-edge technology to local industries for the first time.
Smarter. Safer. Cleaner. More Efficient
- Up to 15% fuel savings than conventional systems
- Even lower emissions & greener combustion
- Smart diagnostics = Preventative and easier maintenance
Cape Boiler & Heater: A legacy of excellence
Founded in 1967, Cape Boiler & Heater Co. has been a trusted name in South African industrial heating for over 50 years. A family run business, now under the guidance of the third generation, the company continues to uphold a legacy of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Known for their THERMAX Thermal Oil Heaters, STEAMATIC Rapid Steam Boilers, FLOMAX Hot Water Boilers, and bespoke industrial heating solutions, Cape Boiler & Heater offers comprehensive turnkey services including design, project management, installation, maintenance, and training.
Unique solution: The THERMAX THERMAL OIL HEATER & AUTOFLAME MINI MK9
For this landmark project, Cape Boiler & Heater supplied and commissioned a THERMAX Thermal Oil Heater equipped with the Autoflame Mini Mk9 Advanced Micro Modulation (MM) system. This cutting-edge technology provides:
- Micro Modulation Control: Continuously adjusts fuel and air to match real-time demand, ensuring stable operation across the entire load range.
- Instant UV O₂ Trim with Feedback: Patented UV scanners provide precision oxygen control, automatically optimising combustion for maximum efficiency and safety, in real time.
- Industry-Leading Turndown Ratios: Up to 4:1 on liquid fuels and 10:1 on gaseous fuels, maintaining tight fuel-to-air ratio control and reducing emissions.
- The THERMAX Thermal Oil Heaters themselves are a marvel of engineering, designed specifically for reliability, efficiency, and safety in industrial environments. Built with a downward-fired, four-pass design and premium-grade materials, the vertical orientation allows stress-free expansion of the heater during operation, while the air-cooled outer shell preheats combustion air and protects against hot gases. Every unit undergoes rigorous factory testing to ensure seamless installation and commissioning on site. Combined with the Autoflame Mini Mk9, the THERMAX heaters deliver unmatched performance, precise temperature control, and significant energy savings, making them ideal for industries seeking high-efficiency thermal solutions tailored to South African conditions.
The Autoflame UV Trim Scanner, a revolutionary technology unique to the Mini Mk9, allows “Air-Fuel Ratio Trimming At the Speed of Light™”, ensuring the burner always fires safely and efficiently. This patented system is compatible with a wide range of fuels including natural gas, diesel, heavy fuel oil, and biofuels.
Combustion technology: SA’s exclusive partner
Combustion Technology, also a family-run business operating for nearly 40 years, proudly supplies Autoflame products in South Africa and Mauritius. With expertise in supply and installation of boilers and burners, 24/7 Boiler Management, boiler rentals, maintenance, project management, and spare parts, they bring international combustion management technology to local industries. Their flagship product, Autoflame, is globally recognised for digital combustion management, supported by international Tech Centres that offer supply, advanced training, and member support.
A powerful partnership
The collaboration between Cape Boiler & Heater and Combustion Technology represents a powerhouse of knowledge and innovation. Both family-run businesses bring decades of experience and expertise to the table, delivering bespoke, results-driven solutions for boiler plants across South Africa. Together, they are setting a new standard in industrial heating, ensuring clients benefit from enhanced fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and safer operation.
Looking to the future
Both Managing Directors, Sebastian Kellerman (Cape Boiler & Heater) and Grant Renecle (Combustion Technology), agree: every boiler and burner should be fitted with Autoflame Controls. Their combined dedication ensures customers receive optimised boiler solutions, tailored advice, and exceptional service, helping clients save significantly on fuel and operational costs while extending the lifespan of their plants and equipment.
