CSIR unveils Hot Isostatic Press facility to boost local manufacturing research and development
11 December 2025: Pretoria, South Africa
A state-of-the-art Hot Isostatic Press (HIP) facility has been unveiled at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in Pretoria to support local companies in advancing their products by enhancing the strength and durability of metal components. The facility was established through National Equipment Programme (NEP) funding from the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), underscoring the state’s commitment to world-class research infrastructure that supports industrial innovation.
The HIP process densifies metal powders and components using high temperature and isostatic gas pressure, transforming them into solid, high-performance parts, including those with complex geometries. This significantly reduces the need for welding or machining and can lower material and production costs for local manufacturers. The capability is particularly relevant for high-performance metal components in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, medical, energy, railway and mining.
CSIR senior engineer Maurice Maliage explained that the team works closely with industry to develop customised pressing processes, identifying suitable parameters for specific components and conducting applied research to optimise performance. Parts are subjected to rigorous non-destructive testing before and after pressing using metrology tools and X-ray inspection to detect pores, weak spots or defects. Dimensional checks are carried out both pre- and post-HIP to ensure that geometric tolerances are maintained and that no unacceptable distortion has occurred.
Early industry users are already seeing strong results. Dion Greyling from Metallurgical and Manufacturing Services, one of the facility’s first clients, highlighted that mechanical properties achieved in HIP-processed products have exceeded benchmark values from powder manufacturers, illustrating the potential to revitalise local metallurgical capabilities. The availability of local HIP capacity also reduces dependence on overseas services, shortening lead times and enhancing competitiveness for South African firms in global supply chains.
DSTI Director-General Dr Mlungisi Cele, joined by Deputy Director-Generals Imraan Patel (Research, Development and Support) and Dr Mmboneni Muofhe (Socio-economic Innovation Partnerships), reaffirmed the department’s commitment to investing in infrastructure that supports innovation and technology localisation. The HIP facility aligns with broader policy goals to strengthen advanced manufacturing, improve productivity, and support the development of specialised materials and components within the country.
CSIR CEO Dr Thulani Dlamini described the HIP capability as a significant step forward for the manufacturing sector and part of the organisation’s long-standing mandate to foster industrial development through science and technology. He emphasised that, as the CSIR marks 80 years of operation, the organisation remains focused on deploying advanced technologies that enhance the national innovation system and bolster industrial and economic competitiveness.
Local inventors, product developers and component manufacturers are invited to engage the CSIR on joint technology development collaborations that use HIP to modernise and revitalise South Africa’s manufacturing base. The facility offers opportunities for casting densification, additive manufacturing post-processing, powder metallurgy and other applications where improved material integrity, fatigue performance and reliability are critical.
View the introductory video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91MnB0dS7yk&list=PLNJIvZ4paKwqq-ochCv4xPawFB1gGF8pH&index=5.
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For media enquiries, contact:
Kulani Chauke, Manager: Corporate Communication and Media Relations
Email: kchauke@csir.co.za
