Grant: Applied Research Tools and Instruments Grants

Sarnia-Lambton is the third largest manufacturing sector in Ontario with $24 billion economic output (2014) from its petrochemical and refining cluster. This cluster has been the major source behind the establishment of many small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) specializing in fabrication, engineering and environmental services. However, over the last twenty years there has been a decline and stagnation in manufacturing projects initiated by these large companies. Several initiatives have addressed this problem - economic diversification, building innovative companies, and establishment of industry clusters. *In 2013, Lambton College established the Bluewater Technology Centre (BTAC), an Advanced Manufacturing Centre, to provide manufacturing applied research, technical services and specialized training activities to new companies, existing SMEs, and large manufacturing industries. Since its establishment, BTAC has been very successful, engaging 357 companies (301 SMEs) and providing 85 applied research projects and 389 technical services. BTAC has been very well received and continues to grow; however, there are infrastructure gaps that limit BTAC's ability to effectively carry out current projects and establish new ones. The biggest limitation involves manufacturing equipment. The requested equipment listed in this proposal, aims to fill this infrastructure gap by adding and updating equipment for applied research that is complimentary to the existing infrastructure. Initially, the requested equipment will be initially utilized by eight (8) local and regional companies and will be used by Lambton College researchers through the Bluewater Technology Access Centre.*