New surface engineering centre launched at Swinburne University

A new Swinburne University-based centre linking researchers with industrial problems has been launched, supported by $4.9 million in federal funding.

The Australian Research Council Industrial Transformation Training Centre in Surface Engineering for Advanced Materials (SEAM) was launched at Swinburne. Its membership also includes RMIT, University of South Australia, and 29 industrial partners.

According to a statement from Swinburne, it will “work with industry to solve surface engineering problems and develop new products to improve the service life or function of a component’s exterior.” 

13 projects will be pursued over the next five years, involving 77 researchers and industry leaders. Projects include remanufacturing large components for mining, antibacterial films for medical devices, and improved corrosion resistance for marine vessel parts.

Head of SEAM, Distinguished Professor Chris Berndt, said the centre would also foster a pipeline of trained professionals to work in industry.

“The concept for SEAM is to provide the surface engineering industry with ‘plug and play’ graduates,” said Berndt. 

“SEAM graduates will have the necessary knowledge and basic skills in surface engineering to help their employees without the steep learning curve. SEAM really does cover it all.”

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