The Centre for Innovation and Research in Advanced Manufacturing and Materials (CIRAMM) at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) utilizes over 30,000 square feet of innovation space to provide services to a wide range of industries, leveraging its expertise in manufacturing, robotics, automation, and materials science. Dr. Rajani’s team at CIRAMM is equipped with five state-of-the-art laboratories:
1. Advanced Materials Characterization Lab:
Innovators can synthesize various materials and analyze their microstructure, physical, and mechanical properties using techniques such as SEM/EBSD/EDS, XRD, X-ray Microtomography, Hyphenated TGA/DSC/FTIR/GC/MS, Optical Microscopy, Atomic Force Microscopy, Surface Energy Analysis, Gas Adsorption Analysis, DMA, Universal Mechanical Testing (static and dynamic), Impact Testing, Tribology, Rheology, Corrosion, and Environmental Degradation Analysis.
2. Intelligent Design and Additive Manufacturing Lab:
This lab offers advanced design services such as Topology Optimization, Generative Design, Lattice Structure Integration, computer modeling and simulation including FEA and CFD, laser scanning, and part digitization. It also features a wide range of 3D printers, including metal 3D printers, small and large-size FDM printers, and SLA printers.
3. Composite and Sustainable Materials Lab:
Focusing on innovation in the design and development of sustainable composite materials, this lab is equipped with an aerospace-grade large-size autoclave and resources to design and manufacture composite molds of various sizes.
4. Advanced Manufacturing Lab:
This lab specializes in laser processing of materials, including laser welding, laser cladding, and large-size Laser DED 3D printing. It also supports the synthesis of advanced inorganic materials, custom alloys, metal matrix composites, and Cermets using Spark Plasma Sintering and Vacuum Arc Casting. Thin-layer coating using PVD and custom metal powder production are some of the other capabilities of this lab.
5. Robotics and Automation Lab:
CIRAMM provides robotics programming and integration services, focusing on large-size additive manufacturing, including 3D printing of metals, polymers, and construction materials, as well as prefabrication and assembly applications.
In addition to these advanced labs, CIRAMM hosts major hubs like the Alternative Construction Technologies (ACT) Hub, which in collaboration with ABB focuses on developing new construction solutions using robotics and advanced materials science, and the Alberta Aerospace Research Centre (AARC), aimed at fostering materials and manufacturing innovation in the aerospace industry. Furthermore, CIRAMM is one of the few designated NATO testing centers in Canada, underscoring its unique capabilities and contributions to various industries. To date, CIRAMM has received support from the Canada Foundation for Innovation, NSERC, Alberta Innovates, PrairiesCan, Alberta’s Ministry of Jobs, Economy and Trade, the City of Calgary and several industry partners.