By: John Klinge, Director-EMEA Operations & Strategy, Eriez
In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) dominates headlines and industries race to adopt automated solutions, the foundational principles of research, development, and collaboration remain indispensable. While AI undoubtedly accelerates progress, true innovation is driven by the synergy of cutting-edge research, hands-on industry experience, and strategic partnerships. A prime example is the evolving collaboration between Eriez, a global leader in metal detection and magnetic separation technologies, and Cardiff University, a renowned research institution in Wales. Their partnership underscores how the fusion of academia and industry can drive breakthroughs that would be difficult—if not impossible—to achieve in isolation.
The Power of Collaboration in Innovation
Innovation rarely happens in a vacuum. While AI algorithms and machine learning models can optimise processes and refine efficiencies, the human element—research, testing, and industry expertise—remains paramount. Many of the world’s most transformative technologies stem from academic-industry partnerships that leverage research-backed insights and real-world applications.
This philosophy is embedded in Eriez’ long-standing partnership with Cardiff University. The relationship began when Eriez joined the advisory board for the university’s Magnetic Materials & Applications (MAGMA) research centre. This move facilitated the exchange of knowledge surrounding advanced materials and metal detection signal-processing techniques.
Building on this collaboration, Eriez and Cardiff University embarked upon an Enhanced Knowledge Transfer Partnership from 2019 to 2022. This initiative combined Cardiff’s academic expertise with Eriez’ industry knowledge, leading to groundbreaking signal processing and electronic design advancements. The result? Eriez launched a new generation of high-performance metal detectors in early 2024. These units effectively enhance detection sensitivity and reliability across industries such as food processing and pharmaceuticals.
A Dedicated R&D Hub: Eriez at sbarc
Recognising the value of collaboration, Eriez took its partnership with Cardiff University a step further by establishing Eriez at sbarc, a state-of-the-art research and development hub located within sbarc | spark, Cardiff University’s premier innovation facility. This move strategically positioned Eriez’ Wales-based R&D team within a dynamic ecosystem of researchers, engineers, and technology experts, fostering seamless knowledge transfer and cross-disciplinary innovation.
sbarc | spark is designed to unite industry leaders, academics, and startups in a shared space that encourages collaboration. By entrenching itself in this environment, Eriez gains unparalleled access to Cardiff University’s expertise, advanced research labs, and a continuous pipeline of emerging talent.
A Global Commitment to Research and Innovation
While the partnership with Cardiff University is a cornerstone of Eriez’ R&D efforts, it is only one part of a much broader global strategy. Eriez is a multinational organisation that fosters innovation across its subsidiaries worldwide, forging strategic collaborations with leading research institutions.
Eriez-USA, for instance, has a strong partnership with Penn State University, working on material separation technologies and process optimisation projects. By collaborating with academic experts, Eriez-USA is advancing research in recycling, mining, and food safety, ensuring its products remain at the forefront of industry standards. A notable collaboration was Eriez’ participation in the “Innovation Through Collaboration” project at Penn State Behrend, which explored the development of new separation technologies to improve efficiency and sustainability. This project gave students hands-on experience while delivering practical solutions for Eriez’ industry applications.
Similarly, Eriez’ global footprint extends to Europe, Asia, and South America, where teams work collaboratively with research centres to address region-specific industrial challenges. These partnerships allow Eriez to harness diverse expertise and develop technologies tailored to different markets and regulatory environments.
AI Meets Research: The Future of Metal Detection
In 2024, Eriez secured £122,000 from Innovate UK to explore AI applications in metal detection systems. This grant supported an eight-month feasibility study conducted in collaboration with Cardiff University, focusing on integrating AI to enhance detection accuracy and efficiency. AI-driven advancements in real-time signal processing and automated anomaly detection promise to revolutionise metal detection, particularly in sectors where precision is critical.
Chris Dyer, Research and Development Engineer at Eriez-Europe explains: “AI can refine detection processes, but its full potential is realised only when paired with deep research and expert engineering. Our collaboration with Cardiff University ensures that AI isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a practical tool utilised in well-researched, reliable systems.”
In addition to the AI feasibility study, Eriez has also privately funded a project with Cardiff University’s School of Engineering to enhance the performance and reliability of metal detector coils.
Beyond AI applications, Eriez is also exploring sustainable materials and environmentally friendly design solutions. Working closely with Cardiff University researchers, the company is developing new sensor technologies and recyclable components that reduce environmental impact while maintaining superior performance. By focusing on sustainability, Eriez is addressing industry demands and aligning with global efforts to create greener, more responsible industrial solutions.
The Bigger Picture: Why R&D and Collaboration Still Matter
At a time when AI is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace, it is tempting to view machine learning as the ultimate driver of innovation. However, Eriez and Cardiff University’s partnership is a compelling case study that underscores a vital truth: AI is a tool, not a substitute for research, development, and collaboration.
True innovation emerges when industry challenges meet academic ingenuity. While AI can optimise processes, it cannot replace the iterative experimentation, testing, and refinement that come from hands-on research. Companies that recognise this—those that invest in long-term R&D strategies and foster collaborative ecosystems—are the ones that will continue to drive meaningful advancements.
For Eriez, the partnership with Cardiff University is not just about technological progress but about ensuring that innovation remains at the heart of what they do. By working alongside leading researchers, investing in state-of-the-art R&D facilities, and integrating AI in a thoughtful, research-driven manner, Eriez exemplifies how the future of industrial technology depends not just on automation but on human ingenuity and collaborative effort.
Conclusion
Companies like Eriez are proving that research, development, and collaboration remain indispensable pillars of innovation in a world increasingly driven by AI. Eriez’ partnership with Cardiff University has led to technological breakthroughs in metal detection while setting a precedent for how industry and academia can work together to push boundaries and redefine what is possible. As we move into a future shaped by AI, one thing remains clear: innovation thrives where collaboration flourishes—across industries, across disciplines, and across the globe.
