SMALLER manufacturing businesses now have access to specialised equipment thanks to a program offered by Enterprise Connect, the Australian Government's $50 million-a-year business assistance program.
Enterprise Connect's Technology Partnerships Register is designed to bring together businesses that have made major investments in specialised equipment that for various reasons was under-utilised, with other businesses that require access to this equipment.
According to Enterprise Connect's Technology and Knowledge Connect Manager, Evangelos Lambrinos, it is a win-win solution.
"Many businesses have invested heavily in equipment, but because of the highly specialised nature of the machinery, they often experience periods in which the equipment lays idle," he said.
"At the same time, we became aware of other small businesses having to send work offshore because they couldn't afford to buy the equipment for themselves. The Technology Partnerships Register connects owners and potential users to the benefit of both sides."
The register has been in development since April 2009 and companies looking to access leading-edge equipment can now see all listings, including technical specifications and the location of available pieces of equipment, online on the Enterprise Connect website. There are currently 60 pieces of equipment listed through the program.
The scheme is designed to help potential users work out whether particular pieces of equipment can help them. All users need to do is fill out a simple online application form.
Equipment currently registered includes: a Direct Metal Laser Sintering Machine that fuses metal powder into a solid part by melting it locally; a Automatic Plasma Circumferen-tial Seam Welder that welds circumferential, seam and other welds on stainless steel tanks and pressure vessels; and a Linear Vibration Welding Machine that uses friction welding for joining plastic parts.
Enterprise Connect's Lambrinos says the benefits of getting involved with technology partnerships are clear.
"Businesses won't have to spend thousands of dollars to buy equipment that may only be used once or twice. There is no high maintenance, insurance or storage costs involved for the applicant," he said.