Bringing better linings to the pharma and energy industries

Almarc Engineering, a Singapore-based engineering firm, has gained recognition for its expertise in PTFE-lined solutions for the pharmaceutical and energy industries. The company was founded by Alvin Cher, who was inspired by the need for materials that could withstand harsh conditions and corrosion in these sectors. Cher's background in pharmaceuticals and previous experience at Beecham Pharmaceuticals helped him understand the challenges faced by industries requiring durable and safe materials.

Almarc prides itself on its rigorous quality control measures, which include testing for tensile strength, hydrostatic testing to detect weaknesses, and "holiday tests" that expose equipment to high-voltage probes to ensure there are no pinholes or micro-cracks. The company's sales engineers have strong backgrounds in mechanical and mechatronics fields, allowing them to effectively communicate the value of Almarc's products to multinational clients.

In 2023, Almarc launched the first ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) Rotoliner machine in South-east Asia, which reduces the need for costly moulds and allows for seamless lining of large equipment with minimal waste. Almarc has manufacturing plants in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, with the latter two countries providing access to large energy and chemical sectors. The company is selective in its regional expansion, focusing on geographies where it has control and can maximize the use of its expertise.

Almarc navigates the fluctuating order patterns of its largest clients by staying debt-free and financing growth through historical earnings. The company positions itself on quality, reliability, and technical expertise rather than competing on price. Almarc also invests in advanced design processes and conducts extensive testing to ensure its products are durable and reliable, resulting in lower lifecycle costs, enhanced safety, and peace of mind for customers.

The company acknowledges the importance of social and environmental responsibility, implementing measures such as solar panels to generate 40% of its Singapore factory's electricity needs and improving energy efficiency through revamped internal compressors. In-house sustainability consultants train staff in waste management and ensure environmental compliance.

Despite potential challenges such as US tariffs on pharmaceutical exports from Singapore, Almarc sees opportunities in the growing chemical and life sciences industries in South-east Asia.