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Du Plessis recognised for expertise in advanced manufacturing
Author: Media & Communication, Faculty of Science
Published: 13/01/2020

An expert in 3D technologies at Stellenbosch University, Prof Anton du Plessis, was recently recognised by the Department of Trade and Industry for his contributions towards leading South Africa into the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

The African Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Awards, part of the annual African Advanced Manufacturing and Composites Show, promotes and rewards innovation in the advanced manufacturing and composites industries, which includes all forms of advanced manufacturing technologies including 3D printing, robotics, Artificial Intelligence and automation.

During a special awards ceremony at Port Elizabeth on 27 November 2019, Prof Du Plessis received the gold award in the category “Scholarly Impact in Advanced Manufacturing". According to a media release issued by DTI, the high standard of entries for the awards was an indication of South Africa's capability to operate and excel in 4ir technologies.

Prof du Plessis' research focuses on metal additive manufacturing (metal 3D printing) and its structural integrity: “I work on new testing methods and improvements in processes that will allow for higher quality parts to be produced with this disruptive technology. It is critical to understand the effect of various defect types to improve the quality and mechanical performance of the parts," he explains.

He also explores new design concepts for additive manufacturing, especially the production of very complex parts: “We can learn from nature to develop unique new materials. In our group we look to natural structures and attempt to reveal design rules which can be applied to practical engineering applications."

He has published more than 30 articles in manufacturing-related publications in the last 3 years, including a series of review articles.

“I am excited about the role that additive manufacturing will play in the fourth industrial revolution and hope to make an impact in this area," he concludes.

For more about his research group, 3D Innovation, click here http://blogs.sun.ac.za/duplessis

On the photo, Prof Anton du Plessis from Stellenbosch University receiving his award from Irish Tshifhiwa Bologo, Chief Operating Officer (COO) Special Economic Zones and Economic Transformation in the Department of Trade and Industry, during the awards ceremony in Port Elizabeth, 27 November 2019.