The CSIR developed a laser-based metal deposition technology for MAN Energy Solutions, which was jointly implemented to improve the efficiency of in-service blower rotors at Sasol.

The refurbishment project improved the efficiency of the rotors by more than 10%. This resulted in significant energy cost savings for Sasol, because of the lower energy input required to achieve the same airflow output.

The technology enables accurate and complex weld build-up profiles on existing components, with limited distortion of the original component. This is made possible by the low heat input of the laser welding process. Laser welding proved ideal because of the accuracy required for the blades on such a compressor and the need for a thin profile build-up.

The CSIR and MAN Energy Solutions jointly offer a laser-based repair and refurbishment service to their clients. The CSIR’s contribution to the collaboration is to provide laser-based manufacturing technologies for the refurbishment of high-value components and plant equipment.