Welding Research and Development in Australia

The role of the WTIA as the premier welding organisation in Australia is outlined. In 1992, Australia introduced a unique concept for cooperation in research and development. Over 60 Cooperative Research Centres (CRCs) were established covering a wide range of technologies and industries. The objective was to link key research centres, working in a collaborative manner on research projects to meet the needs of industry. The CRC for materials welding and joining was formed in 1992 and a new application for a further 7 years of funding for an expanded CRC for Welded Structures is presently being made to Federal Government. This paper highlights key research strategies and projects undertaken by the group as well as a unique network of technology support centres providing technology transfer to industry, particulary small and medium enterprises. Examples of research outputs will illustrate the success of this collaborative strategy in which Federal Government provides a $2.2m grant p.a., which needs to be matched by industry contributions as well as in-kind contributions from the core partners. Industry sectors deeply involved in research projects include pipelines, power generation, petro-chemical, steel production and automotive. The CSIRO also undertakes a significant amount of research work in its own right.