sassda news
CSIR develops local 316L stainless steel powder for additive manufacturing
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has produced spherical 316L stainless steel powder for additive manufacturing, identifying the material as an immediate commercial focus for its ultrasonic atomisation facility.
The development could help reduce South Africa’s reliance on imported metal powders and strengthen local advanced manufacturing. It also shows how the CSIR’s Future Production: Manufacturing Cluster is connecting research and technical capabilities with industry needs, with the Southern African Stainless Steel Development Association (SASSDA) facilitating engagement with the sector. The CSIR has characterised the powder and demonstrated its suitability for additive manufacturing by producing 3D-printed components, including a polishing tool and mechanical test specimens. Moving from demonstration to wider industrial use will require consistent quality, qualification against international specifications, reliable local feedstock and commercially viable production volumes and costs. CSIR Future Production: Manufacturing Cluster Manager Dr Luyolo Mabhali explains, “Our engagement with SASSDA is helping us understand the capabilities and needs of the stainless-steel industry, so that the Manufacturing Cluster’s work can respond to real opportunities for localisation and industrial application.” Sassda Market Intelligence and Lobbying Specialist Tebogo Nkwe adds, “An industry association can help ensure that technology development is informed by the needs of manufacturers and grounded in the realities of the market.
By connecting the CSIR with foundries and other industry players, Sassda can help identify practical interventions that support.” “Our engagement with Sassda is helping us understand the capabilities and needs of the stainless steel industry, so that the Manufacturing Cluster’s work can respond to real opportunities for localisation and industrial application.” Collaboration connects research with industry Sassda has facilitated engagement between the CSIR and several stainless-steel industry players and foundries. The discussions are helping the CSIR build a better understanding of local foundry capabilities and identify opportunities to strengthen the sector.
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Issue 4 – 2026
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