PhD in Industrial Engineering

Qualification and Certification of Laser Powder Bed Fusion for Aerospace Applications: A Model-Based Production Systems Engineering Approach

Date: Feb 2021 - Dec 2023

Stellenbosch University

A laser powder bed fusion production system model was developed in this research that aimed at defining how organisations can architect quality production operations to facilitate the qualification and certification for aerospace applications. Model-based systems engineering techniques were applied to develop and test the system. The production system was able to consistently produce material that conformed with industry requirements. The model aids qualification activities by defining the information, materials, and resources required across the production and product lifecycles.

MEng in Industrial Engineering

A Manufacturing Certification Framework for Laser Powder Bed Fusion for Aerospace Applications

Date: Feb 2019 - Dec 2020 (Upgraded)

Stellenbosch University

My Master's research focused on the qualification and certification processes for laser powder bed fusion systems manufacturing titanium parts for aerospace applications. Industry standards were addressed and subject matter experts in both the aerospace and additive manufacturing industry were consulted to determine industry best practices. A framework for structuring additive manufacturing production operations was developed.

Funding received: Metje Wilfred bursary, Stellenbosch University postgraduate support and departmental assistance bursaries.

BEng in Industrial Engineering

Monitoring Operator Efficiencies in a Job Shop Environment using RFID Technology

Date: Feb 2015 - Dec 2018

Stellenbosch University

My Honours final year project focused on developing and testing an IoT device using RFID technology and microcontrollers to monitor operators at a manufacturing company. This project taught me practical electronics skills, C coding skills for Arduino, data logging, data analysis, and prototype testing.

Courses include: Industrial & Production Management, Manufacturing Systems, Material Science, Electrotechniques, Statistics, Operations Research, Quality Assurance & Management, Control Systems, Information Systems, Simulation, Enterprise Design, and Project Management.

Funding received: National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), Broden H. Eric Bursary, Stellenbosch University assistance bursary.

Additive Manufacturing & Production Certificates

Design & Structural Analysis Certificates

Systems & Quality Management Certificates

Data Analysis & Writing Certificates