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CEAD B.V. (Delft, Netherlands) is forming a strategic collaboration with  (Lagos, Nigeria), an ISO-certified provider of innovative asset integrity and advanced manufacturing solutions for critical industries in Africa.

Through this partnership, CEAD and RusselSmith will introduce large-scale additive manufacturing (LFAM) technologies to African markets, enabling new opportunities for local supply chain development, rapid prototyping and manufacturing localization across industries such as energy, maritime and construction.

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This marks the second CEAD system to be installed on the African continent, reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting innovation, localized production and industrial growth across the region. RusselSmith is set to initiate its journey into LFAM with the implementation of a CEAD Flexcube 3D printing and three-axis machining solution, to be used to produce end-use parts across multiple industries — including maritime, additive construction, energy and tooling applications — supporting clients in manufacturing replacement parts, tooling and bespoke components locally.

Under the agreement, RusselSmith has been appointed CEAD’s exclusive regional implementation partner for LFAM systems in designated West African territories. The collaboration encompasses technology deployment, with CEAD advising on equipment specifications and providing training, technical support and material adaptation guidance. RusselSmith will apply LFAM in marine, defense and construction sectors, supported by new manufacturing facilities it will construct and operate. Together, the companies will promote LFAM capabilities across West Africa and jointly evaluate local material supply chains. CEAD will serve as a technological advisor throughout the collaboration.

CEAD’s systems, based on in-house developed LFAM extrusion technology, including the robot-based Flexbot and cartesian-style Flexcube, seamlessly integrate software, large-format 3D printing and advanced postprocessing technologies, such as milling. This enables end users to efficiently produce high-quality, fiber-reinforced thermoplastic parts with greater strength and durability

“Our partnership with CEAD is a step forward for RusselSmith and brings real value to the industries we serve. By integrating LFAM into our existing capabilities, we are better positioned to support key sectors with more innovative, sustainable and localized manufacturing solutions that deliver shorter lead times, reduced logistics costs and stronger local supply chains,” says Kayode Adeleke, CEO of RusselSmith. “RusselSmith and CEAD share a common vision in promoting the adoption of LFAM and this collaboration reflects our strong commitment to building more resilient industries and creating lasting value across Africa.”