STRENGTH
THAT WITHSTANDS:
ELEVATE YOUR OPERATIONS
WITH
TRIDENT REFRACTORY SPECIALISTS
WHAT
LIES BEHIND
THE SUCCESS
OF A REFRACTORY
PROJECT?
Its 10% engineering, 50% materials and 40% installation technique
REFRACTORY
SOLUTIONS
YOU CAN
RELY ON
TRIDENT REFRACTORY SPECIALISTS
HISTORY OF TRIDENT
Founded in 1997 by Ashley James
Trident Refractory Specialists stands as a testament to over 27 years
of Ashley's profound expertise within the refractory industry.
His journey, rich with extensive installation experience, began as an apprentice at Highveld Steel, eventual- ly leading him through roles at premier installation firms such as the JR Dickinson Group, National Refrac- tories Durban, Stebbins Forter, and Morganite Refractories. This wealth of experience laid the foundation for establishing his own company in 1997.
Rooted in KZN, Trident has flourished as a family-operated refractory installation business, evolving signifi- cantly since its inception. The past eight years have seen Trident’s strategic investment in cutting-edge refractory equipment, enhancing our demolition and installation capabilities, particularly in Rotary Cement & Lime Kilns throughout Southern Africa.
In a significant expansion of our operations, 2020 marked the establishment of a subsidiary, Refra-Tek Anchors, a dedicated manufacturer of refractory anchors. This new venture has experienced substantial growth over the past four years, developing in parallel with Trident and reinforcing our position in the market.
With Ashley at the helm, bringing 27 years of industry experience, Trident Refractory Specialists has con- sistently prioritized the cultivation and maintenance of global relationships with customers and suppliers alike. Our success is propelled by a dedicated team of industry professionals, whose hands-on experience spans significant shutdown projects both nationally and internationally.
From its humble beginnings with a modest team, Trident has grown to command respect among industry leaders, celebrated for its myriad achievements and milestones over the years, further enriched by the successful growth of Refra-Tek Anchors.
"At Trident, our mission has always been to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to
deliver unparalleled refractory solutions. Our journey is marked by a commitment to excellence and a
passion for pushing the boundaries of what's possible."
ASHLEY JAMES
OUR CORE
VALUES
CORE
VISON
& VALUES

Our values define who we are, how we act and what we aspire to be:

Passion
The foundation of our team’s dynamism is an intense passion for what we do. This powerful force inspires us to keep evolving, ensuring that the services we provide not only meet but exceed expectations, creating memorable experiences for our customers.
Our passion motivates us to constantly raise our standards, striving for excellence in every project we undertake.

Quality
Quality is the cornerstone of Trident’s commitment to our clients and partners. We are unwavering in our pursuit of excellence, ensuring that every service and solution we offer aligns with the highest industry standards. Our dedication to quality means consistently delivering results that satisfy the precise needs and requirements of our customers and suppliers, reinforcing their trust in our capabilities.

Teamwork
At Trident, we believe that every individual holds unique value, contributing to our collective success. We are more than just a company; we are a community where everyone is encouraged to share their ideas, talents, and creativity. By fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, we enable our team members to achieve their full potential, making The Trident Group not just a place to work, but a place to grow and thrive together.

Innovative
In the rapidly evolving refractory industry, innovation is key to staying ahead. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, continuously exploring new ideas and approaches that challenge conventional wisdom. Our openness to innovation means we are always ready to adapt and evolve, ensuring that we meet the changing needs of the industry and maintain our leadership position.

Safety
Safety is paramount in everything we do at Trident. We adhere to the strictest safety stan- dards to ensure the well-being of our team, clients, and the communities we serve. Our comprehensive safety protocols and continuous training programs reflect our commitment to creating a secure and healthy work environment. By prioritizing safety, we not only protect our most valuable asset—our people—but also foster a culture of responsibility and care that extends to every aspect of our operations.
TRIDENTS
MISSION
“Our mission is to establish Trident as the premier refractory services provider in Southern Africa and beyond. We are committed to consistently executing projects that not only meet but exceed our customers’ expectations and industry standards. Through a relentless dedication to quality, innovation, and safety, we aim to nurture strong, lasting relationships with our clients, employees, and the communities we impact. Our commitment to excellence in every facet of our operations is the driving force behind our growth and the solidification of our status as industry leaders.”
TRIDENTS
STRATEGY
1. Quality and Excellence:
Upholding the highest standards of quality in every project and service we deliver, ensuring we exceed customer expectations.
2. Continuous Innovation:
Embracing cutting-edge technologies and innovative methodologies to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving refractory industry.
3. Safety and Responsibility:
Prioritizing the health and safety of our employees, clients, and community by implementing rigorous safety protocols and fostering a culture of responsibility.
4. Employee Development:
Investing in our team’s growth and development to enhance expertise, foster leadership, and ensure a highly skilled workforce ready to meet the challenges of the future.
5. Customer Centricity:
Building and maintaining strong relationships with our clients through transparent communication, personalized service, and unwavering support, ensuring their needs and expectations are not just met but surpassed.
6. Sustainable Growth:
Pursuing strategic opportunities for expansion while maintaining our commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.
MEET THE
TEAM

Ashley James
– Managing Director
Ashley James is the visionary founder of Trident, and he plays an integral role in the daily operations of the business. His hands-on approach sees him actively engaging with our teams on the ground, where he is a driving force behind our commitment to excellence in all core functions of the company. Ashley’s journey in the refractory industry began in his early twenties, and he brings to Trident a wealth of experience gained from working across most major processing plants in South Africa.
PASSION
Ashley is passionate about innovation and efficiency in our field. He stays abreast of the latest advance- ments in refractory equipment, with a keen focus on technologies that enhance our demolition and installa- tion services, especially within the cement and lime industries of South Africa. His expertise is not just limited to equipment; Ashley’s vast knowledge of the refractory industry at large makes him a go-to resource for both our team and our clients.

Beverley James
– Managing and Financial Director
Beverley James, alongside her husband Ashley, has been a foundational pillar in the development and growth of Trident. As the Managing and Financial Director, her influence has been instrumental in steering the company from its early days to its current status as a leader in the refractory industry. Bev and Ashley’s partnership has been the driving force behind Trident’s enduring success, embodying a perfect blend of visionary leadership and practical, financial acumen.
COMMITMENT
With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to the company’s fiscal health, Bev oversees all financial operations and strategic planning aspects. Her management ensures that Trident operates efficiently, remains financially robust, and continues to grow sustainably. Bev’s role is critical in maintaining the balance between ambitious expansion and practical financial oversight, making her an indispensable part of Trident’s leadership team.
Her collaborative approach with Ashley has not only fortified their personal bond but has also created a strong, unified direction for the company. Together, they have navigated challenges and celebrated success- es, solidifying Trident’s position in the market. Bev’s expertise in financial control and operations manage- ment continues to be a cornerstone of Trident’s strategy, securing its legacy and future in the refractory services sector.

Emma Smith
Contracts Manager

Peter Smith
Site Contracts Manager
Peter Smith is a cornerstone of Trident’s operational excellence, having been with the company since 2006. Over these 18 years, Peter’s dedication and skill have seen him ascend to the role of Site Contracts Manager, a position he has earned not only through his tenure but also by achieving his qualification as an API 936 Refractory Personnel.

Robert Hall
Site Manager
Robert Hall has been an indispensable part of Trident for 12 years, specializing in rotary kilns bricking. His exemplary leadership is demonstrated through his commitment to excellence and his ability to inspire his team.

Laura Hall
Marketing Manager
Laura Hall, the dynamic youngest daughter of Ashley and Bev James, is a vibrant force within Trident, embodying the legacy of refractory excellence her family has established. With 8 years of dedicated service, Laura has immersed herself in the fabric of Trident, playing a versatile role in its operations.

Vernon Pillay
Refractory Sales Manager & Refra-Tek Production Manager
Vernon Pillay is a dynamic figure within Trident, carrying the dual responsibilities of Refractory Sales Manager and Production Manager at Refra-Tek. His dual role is critical to both Trident’s material sales success and the seamless operation of Refra-Tek’s production line.

Leigh Smith
HR Coordinator
Leigh Smith has been an integral part of Trident since 2017, serving as the Human Resource Coordinator. Her role within the company extends beyond traditional HR responsibilities; Leigh has become a vital link between Trident’s employees and its broad customer base.

Herman Kusel
Demolition and Installation Supervisor

Nozipho Khumalo
Administrator for Trident and Refra-Tek Anchors

Cebo Mathibela
Site Supervisor

Bario Goliath
Lichtenburg Branch Coordinator & Welding Installation Supervisor
Bario Goliath expertly balances his dual roles at Trident, showcasing his exceptional skills in welding supervision while coordinating the activities of our Lichtenburg branch.

Udesh Ramnarayan
Safety Officer
At the heart of Trident’s commitment to operational excellence and workforce wellbeing is Udesh Ramnarayan, our dedicated Safety Officer. Udesh’s role is pivotal in embedding a culture of safety throughout every level of our operations.
While all of us made best efforts to complete the reline work of line 2 remelt furnaces, I thought we must note and appreciate the assistance provided by Trident, when we ran into few difficulties, even though execution of the work was not responsibility of Trident, but was being executed by other agencies.
Reggie, please convey our thanks to Ashley and his team, who assisted us. What is also to be noted is that with time, many could have provided assistance, but the “immediate” assistance which was provided is surely to be appreciated (with cutting disks being flown and Ashley doing like relay race at late night to meet the runner halfway from Durban airport to get the disks to Hulamin).
I am writing to thank you most sincerely for your invaluable and outstanding service provided to Engen Refinery during the recent reformer furnace rebuild.
The prompt and decisive work by your teams were a reflection of the highest standards, professionalism and high quality service.
Despite the challenging site conditions, complexity & magnitude of the task, overall performance has been excellent with safety performance in particular being exceptional.
This achievement was made possible by the high level of commitment, ownership and excellence displayed by your team, for which I sincerely appreciate.
In February 2018 Vesuvius SA contracted Trident Refractories to do the repair of our TK 9 tunnel kiln in Olifantsfontein. The scope of the repair included the following:
- ï Demolishing of various areas in the kiln prior to the repair work
- ï Replacement of a large section of the radiation seal brick arrangement in the kiln
- ï Replacement of the sidewall bricks in the firing zone
- ï Replacement of several precast burner block assemblies
- ï General repairs on the kiln wall in the kiln cooling zone area.
During this period the quality of work delivered by Trident were of a high standard and work
were conducted in a professional manner throughout the duration of the repair.
There was strict adherence to Vesuvius safety standards and no incidents were reported during this period. There was always competent supervision on site to oversee all the work. Delivery of specific milestones were always on track and since the start-up of this kiln on the 1st of April 2018 it has been running without any problems.
In September of 2018 Trident was again contracted to do the repair on our TK 10 tunnel kiln which included all of the above as well as the replacement of one of the roof sections in the firing zone of the kiln.
Once again, the same high standard was maintained during this repair as per the previous one earlier in the year.
I can strongly recommend Trident refractories for all types of refractory lining repairs based on the experience above.









