Over 30 Small, Medium and Micro-sized Enterprises (SMME) from across Gauteng were introduced to laser-based manufacturing technologies that can support their manufacturing operations at an open day organised by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

According to Dr Luyolo Mabhali, CSIR research group leader of the Laser-enabled Manufacturing group, the open Day was hosted to introduce laser-based manufacturing (LEM) technologies and processes as a viable advanced manufacturing solution to local manufacturers.

“Laser-based manufacturing allows designers and manufacturers with a new manufacturing technology to improve the competitiveness of product lines, as well as improve on turnaround times,” he said.

Other than introducing SMMEs to LEM technology and services, small companies were provided  with an opportunity to identify which LEM technologies they might have an interested in and also had an opportunity to engage with CSIR researchers on some of their technical challenges that can be addressed with laser-based processing techniques.

Some of the small business owners who attended the open day said they found it excellent and informative.

“As a business owner in the jewellery industry, I was particularly interested in laser cutting and laser welding. I think these are laser technologies that can be of great use to my business. The platform was also brilliant in the sense that it provided us with the opportunity to network. I look forward to having a follow-up meeting with the CSIR and SEDA to further explore possible business opportunities,” says Hennie Boshoff, owner of Bossau Finesse Jewellery.

Over the years, the CSIR has successfully developed laser-based manufacturing technologies that enabled industry to develop new products.

“We understand that the costs of using laser-based technologies are high for most SMMEs. To bridge the gap, we are offering our capabilities, which include access by SMMEs to our laser-based manufacturing equipment and expertise to support them in new process development ventures for their manufacturing processes,” says Hardus Greyling, commercialisation manager at the CSIR National Laser Centre (NLC).

In the field of laser technology, the CSIR offers a number of technology solutions and services for SMMEs, such as laser welding, laser hardening, laser cladding and 3D laser cutting, as well as a mobile laser system for on-site processing applications.

“These diverse technology solutions have the ability to reduce costs, enhance performance, provide opportunities for innovative design and can extend the lifespan of equipment in the industrial market,” adds Greyling.

The CSIR also renders technology assistance to companies in the automotive, aerospace, tooling and power generation manufacturing industries.

ENDS

For more information, please contact Tendani Tsedu, CSIR Group Manager: Communications and Stakeholder Relations on 012 841 3417/082 945 1980 or email mtsedu@csir.co.za.

About the CSIR

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research is a world-class African research and development organisation established through an Act of Parliament in 1945. The CSIR undertakes directed, multidisciplinary research and technological innovation that contributes to the improved quality of life of South Africans.

For more information, please visit www.csir.co.za